Preferably
/ˈpɹɛf(ə)ɹəbli/
Definitions
Used to express what is more desired, suitable, or advantageous.
/ˈpɹɛf(ə)ɹəbli/
Used to indicate what is more desirable or suitable.
I would preferably eat apples over oranges.
💡 Simply: It's like saying 'I'd rather...' or 'I like this best...' If you have a choice between pizza and tacos, and you'd preferably pick pizza, that means you want pizza more.
👶 For kids: It means you like something better than something else.
More Examples
The event will preferably be held outdoors, weather permitting.
Preferably, submit your application by the end of the week.
How It's Used
"I would preferably like to go to the beach instead of the mountains."
"The company would preferably choose a candidate with experience in project management."
"Preferably, we'll finish this before dinner."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Preferably speaking...
Used to introduce a statement of what is generally preferred or regarded as more desirable.
"Preferably speaking, we'd like to start the project next week."
From 'prefer' + '-ably'. 'Prefer' comes from Old French 'prefrer' (to prefer), from Latin 'praeferre' (to carry before, prefer).
The word has been used since the early 17th century, gradually evolving to its current common usage.
Memory tip
Think of what you 'prefer' – the '-ably' adds the way in which you express this preference.
Word Origin
"To carry before, prefer"