preferably

British  

/ ˈprɛfrəblɪ, ˈprɛfərəblɪ /

adverb

1. ideally; by preference; if one had a choice

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Explanation

The adverb preferably refers to the most desirable choice. You could say you were looking for a new car, preferably a hybrid. That means that a hybrid is the kind of car you would choose over any other kind. As preferably is the adverb form of the word "prefer," we can find its roots in the Latin praeferre, which means "to set before." When you use preferably you're saying you'd set that choice before all others, though you might accept something else. Musician David Byrne once said, "I wanted to be a secret agent and an astronaut, preferably at the same time."

Example Sentences

"Everyone should eat their ice cream -- maybe preferably earlier in the day. Small, consistent habits, like maintaining a structured meal routine, may help promote more regular eating patterns and support digestive function over time."

From Science Daily • May 1, 2026

“Hag” is meant to be watched, enjoyed and watched all over again, preferably with a different set of friends than the first go-round so the gospel can spread as quickly as possible.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

In early March, Bern announced its intention to examine the acquisition of an additional long-range surface-to-air missile system, preferably manufactured in Europe, to complement the Patriot system.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Then, just before she hits the gate, Shiffrin pops a very legal performance enhancer known to sweet tooths everywhere: gummy bears, preferably Haribo, as mouth-puckeringly sour as possible.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

I intended to read it over at dinner, preferably by candlelight.

From "Nine Stories" by J. D. Salinger