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.
If Messi could not be ignored on the pitch, he has never sought the spotlight off it, preferring family time to interviews or news conferences.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
Mr. Warsh seems particularly hostile to that kind of talk, preferring to let markets guess.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 25, 2026
"This excess in supply is also likely an additional factor serving to weigh on global sovereign debt markets with some investors preferring to invest in Big Tech as opposed to indebted sovereigns."
From Barron's ● Aug. 21, 2026
Yet the journalist appears reluctant to focus on the pressures he's under, preferring instead to highlight the plight of compatriots in prison.
From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2026
He mostly stayed behind the scenes, preferring not to draw attention to himself.
From "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson
