prefer
verb (used with object)
to set or hold before or above other persons or things in estimation; like better; choose rather than.
preferring
-
present participleof prefer.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It avoids swinging for the fences, preferring to deliver a more consistent streak of base hits.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026
Director of football Jason Wilcox is thought to favour the 48-year-old, with director of recruitment Christopher Vivell preferring former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.
From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2026
The 56-year-old First Lady carefully guards her image and is an infrequent presence at the White House, preferring to stay in New York where her son Barron is studying.
From Barron's ● Oct. 23, 2026
The challenge now is helping people overcome barriers to outdoor activity, such as safety concerns, fear of falling, or simply preferring the comfort of the sofa – particularly during wetter, colder months.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 19, 2026
The swarm of gnats stayed behind, preferring the contents of Zero's stomach to the sweat on the boys' faces.
From "Holes" by Louis Sachar
