What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prefer
Example
I prefer tea over coffee. [prefer: verb]
Example
She prefers to read books instead of watching TV. [prefers: present tense]
choose
Example
I will choose the blue shirt over the red one. [choose: verb]
Example
He chose to study engineering in college. [chose: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Choose is more commonly used than prefer in everyday language. Choose is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prefer is less common and refers to personal preferences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prefer and choose?
Both prefer and choose can be used in formal and informal contexts, but choose is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
