preference

[ˈprɛf(ə)rəns]

preference Definition

  • 1a greater liking for one alternative over another or others
  • 2the right or chance to choose
  • 3a prior right or precedence, especially in connection with the payment of debts

Using preference: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "preference" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I have a preference for spicy food.

  • Example

    She expressed a strong preference for the blue dress.

  • Example

    The company gives preference to candidates with experience.

  • Example

    He has a preference for classical music.

preference Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using preference

  • a subjective choice based on personal taste or opinion

    Example

    Whether to use a PC or a Mac is a matter of preference.

  • to demonstrate a liking or inclination towards something

    Example

    The child showed a preference for playing with blocks over dolls.

  • to not have a particular liking or inclination towards something

    Example

    I have no preference for which restaurant we go to tonight.

Phrases with preference

  • shares in a company that entitle the holder to a fixed dividend and priority over ordinary shareholders in the event of liquidation

    Example

    The company issued preference shares to raise capital.

  • an agreement between political parties to support each other's policies or candidates

    Example

    The two parties made a preference deal to increase their chances of winning the election.

  • a feature on websites that allows users to customize their preferences for receiving emails or other communications

    Example

    The website's preference center lets users choose which types of emails they want to receive.

Origins of preference

from Old French 'preferance', from Latin 'praeferentia', from 'praeferre' meaning 'to carry in front, prefer'

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Summary: preference in Brief

The term 'preference' [ˈprɛf(ə)rəns] refers to a greater liking for one alternative over another or others. It can also mean the right or chance to choose, or a prior right or precedence. Examples include 'I have a preference for spicy food,' and 'The company gives preference to candidates with experience.' Idioms like 'a matter of preference' denote subjective choices, while 'show a preference for' means demonstrating a liking or inclination.

How do native speakers use this expression?