- 1 (not used in the progressive tenses) to like one thing or person better than another; to choose one thing rather than something else because you like it better prefer something “Coffee or tea?” “I'd prefer tea, thanks.” I much prefer jazz to rock music. I would prefer it if you didn't tell anyone. A local firm is to be preferred. prefer something + adj. I prefer my coffee black. prefer to do something The donor prefers to remain anonymous. I prefer not to think about it. prefer somebody/something to do something Would you prefer me to stay? prefer doing something I prefer playing doubles. prefer that…
- 2(formal) I would prefer that you did not mention my name.
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NAmE//prɪˈfər//
Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they prefer he / she / it prefers
past simple preferred
Check pronunciation: prefer