Preferable
/ˈpɹɛf(ə)ɹəb(ə)l/
Definitions
More desirable or suitable than something else.
/ˈpɹɛf(ə)ɹəb(ə)l/
More desirable or suitable; more favored
For a quick lunch, a sandwich is preferable to a full meal.
💡 Simply: If something's preferable, it's like you'd choose it over something else because you like it better. Like, a warm cookie is preferable to a cold one!
👶 For kids: When something is preferable, it means you like it better.
More Examples
In this situation, remaining silent is preferable to speaking.
The former plan is preferable to the latter, as it is far more cost-effective.
How It's Used
"It is preferable to travel by train than by bus."
"The company considers flexible work arrangements preferable to a rigid schedule."
From Middle English *preferable*, from Old French *preferable*, from Latin *praeferre* ("to prefer").
The word 'preferable' has been used since the 15th century, evolving from the verb 'prefer'. Early uses focused on establishing something as the 'better' option.
Memory tip
Think of what you *prefer* to have.
Word Origin
"prae (before, in front) + ferre (to bear, carry) - to carry something before another, or hold in higher regard."