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preference
/ˈprɛfərəns/
favored choice
My preference is to travel in the morning to avoid traffic.
The speaker expresses a favored option for traveling.
neutral
A greater liking for one alternative over others
She has a strong preference for classical music over pop.
She clearly favors classical music.
The survey revealed consumer preferences for eco-friendly products.
The survey showed which eco-friendly products people liked most.
Often used in contexts like surveys, personal choices, or market research.
Law
formal
Priority given to one option in a formal system
The contract states the preference of creditors in case of liquidation.
The contract specifies which creditors get paid first.
In legal contexts, 'preference' can refer to priority rights, e.g., in bankruptcy.
Collocations
personal preferencean individual's favored choiceconsumer preferencewhat buyers like or choosehave a preference forto favor one optionshow preferenceto indicate a favored option
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid assuming preference equals quality
Preference is subjective. Saying 'I prefer tea' doesn't mean tea is better than coffee—it just means you like tea more.
Gold Rule
Use 'preference' for choices, not absolutes
Correct: 'My preference is vegetarian meals.' Incorrect: 'Vegetarian meals are my preference because they are healthier.' (Health is a separate claim.)
Word Origin
From Latin *praeferentia* (putting forward), from *praeferre* (to put before), combining *prae-* (before) and *ferre* (to carry).
Usage Notes
Preference is a neutral term; it does not imply superiority, only favor. Avoid using it to mean 'better' unless comparing alternatives.
Word Breakdown
pre-
before
prefix-fer-
to carry
root-ence
state or quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary