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.

For years, the U.S. refrained from investigating sitting politicians in its fight against drug trafficking, preferring to target cartel leaders.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

Doubts over the sector and low prospective returns meant that energy majors have so far largely stayed away, preferring to invest in biofuels, said Mutrelle.

From Barron's • May 31, 2026

It discarded its best-known brands – the Mondeo and the Fiesta – as part of a move away from affordable, everyman cars, preferring to concentrate on more upmarket models.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

He also wants to shrink the Fed's balance sheet, preferring to use interest rates as the central bank's primary tool on both sides of its mandate.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

But there was only endless talk that led nowhere and I began to keep away from home as much as possible, preferring the simplicity of the streets to the worried, futile talk at home.

From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright