What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fancy
Example
I fancy a cup of tea right now. [fancy: verb]
Example
She has a fancy for chocolate cake. [fancy: noun]
Example
He fancies himself as a bit of a musician. [fancies: verb]
prefer
Example
I prefer coffee over tea. [prefer: verb]
Example
She prefers to stay home on weekends. [prefers: verb]
Example
He has a preference for classical music. [preference: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prefer is more commonly used than fancy in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fancy and prefer?
Prefer is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while fancy is more informal and may not be appropriate in formal settings.
