What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
choice
Example
I have a difficult choice to make between two job offers. [choice: noun]
Example
She chose to stay home instead of going out with her friends. [chose: past tense verb]
preference
Example
My preference for coffee over tea is well-known among my friends. [preference: noun]
Example
He prefers to watch movies at home rather than going to the theater. [prefers: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Choice is more commonly used in everyday language compared to preference. Choice is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while preference is more specific and often used when discussing personal likes and dislikes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between choice and preference?
Both choice and preference can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, choice is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while preference may sound slightly more informal or casual.