Preference
'pref(ə)r(ə)ns
Definitions
2 meaningsA feeling of liking or wanting one thing more than another.
'pref(ə)r(ə)ns
A greater liking for one alternative over another.
His preference is for classic rock music.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a choice between pizza and tacos. Your preference is which one you *really* want to eat more. It's the thing you like best!
👶 For kids: When you like something more than something else, that's your preference!
More Examples
The survey aimed to determine consumer preferences for different brands.
Given the choice, I have a preference for walking over taking the bus.
How It's Used
"She has a preference for tea over coffee."
"Consumer preferences are often studied to understand market trends."
The act of giving priority or advantage to one thing over another.
'pref(ə)r(ə)ns
The act of giving one thing priority over another.
The bank gave preference to customers with a high credit score.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game and the rules say one player gets to go first. Giving that player the advantage of going first is a 'preference' in the game's rules.
👶 For kids: When you get to do something first or better than someone else, that's like getting a preference!
More Examples
The company policy gives preference to employees for internal promotions.
The judges gave preference to the performance with the most technical skill.
How It's Used
"The company gives preference to local suppliers."
"The court granted preference to the claimant's evidence."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
by preference
Because one wants it; by choice.
"I usually walk to work by preference, even though the bus is quicker."
have a preference for
To like or choose something over another.
"She has a preference for reading books rather than watching TV."
From Middle English *preference*, from Old French *preference* (early 14th century), from Late Latin *praeferentia* ('a carrying before, a preference'), from Latin *praeferre* ('to carry before, to prefer')
The word 'preference' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to the act of favoring or choosing. Its use broadened with the development of markets and consumerism.
Memory tip
Think of what you 'prefer' to do - that's your preference!
Word Origin
"to carry before, to prefer"