In everyday English, the word prefer” is commonly used to express choices, likes, or priorities between two or more options. It’s a useful verb for both casual and formal communication, making it an essential part of fluent speaking and writing. Many English learners and even native speakers sometimes wonder how to use “prefer” correctly in a sentence. Understanding how to use “prefer” with different grammatical structures can make your communication more accurate and expressive. This topic will explore how to use “prefer” in a sentence through examples, rules, and practical guidance.
Understanding the Verb “Prefer”
The verb “prefer” means to like one thing more than another. It expresses a choice, favor, or inclination between options. While the meaning is straightforward, using it correctly in different sentence types involves some important grammatical considerations.
Basic Sentence Structure
The most basic way to use “prefer” in a sentence is
- Subject + prefer + noun
- Subject + prefer + to + verb (base form)
Let’s look at a few examples of each
- I prefer coffee.
- She prefers reading to watching TV.
- They prefer to stay home on weekends.
- He prefers dogs over cats.
Using “Prefer” with Gerunds
When comparing two activities, “prefer” is often followed by gerunds (the -ing form of verbs). This form is used to talk about general preferences.
Examples
- I prefer walking to driving.
- We prefer eating at home to dining out.
- She prefers working alone rather than in a group.
Notice that when “prefer” is followed by gerunds, the structure often includes to or rather than to compare two activities.
Using “Prefer” with Infinitives
In some contexts, particularly when talking about a specific choice or situation, “prefer” can be followed by the infinitive form of the verb (“to” + base verb).
Examples
- He prefers to study in the morning.
- I prefer to eat light meals in the evening.
- They prefer to travel by train.
This structure is commonly used when referring to particular occasions or when the speaker wants to stress intention or decision.
Prefer + Object + Infinitive
Another structure involves placing an object before the infinitive. This pattern is used when the subject is asking someone else to do something or expressing preference about what someone should do.
Examples
- I prefer you to call me before visiting.
- She prefers him to speak honestly.
- We prefer our employees to arrive on time.
This use of “prefer” allows the speaker to express preference regarding the actions of others.
Prefer + That + Clause
You can also use “prefer” followed by a “that” clause to express a preference for someone else’s actions. This structure is more formal and is commonly used in writing or polite conversation.
Examples
- I prefer that you arrive early tomorrow.
- They prefer that the meeting be held in the afternoon.
- She prefers that he not come unannounced.
Notice that in these examples, the verb in the “that” clause is in the base form or subjunctive, especially in formal English.
Common Expressions with “Prefer”
Prefer… Rather Than
Rather than is often used in comparison sentences with “prefer” to emphasize the difference in choice.
Examples
- I prefer tea rather than coffee.
- He prefers staying at home rather than going to parties.
Prefer… Over
Another way to compare two things is by using “over.”
Examples
- They prefer action movies over comedies.
- We prefer online shopping over visiting stores.
Negative Sentences with “Prefer”
Making negative sentences with “prefer” is simple. You just add “do not” or “does not” before the verb in the present tense.
Examples
- I do not prefer spicy food.
- She doesn’t prefer to travel alone.
- They don’t prefer walking in the rain.
In more natural English, native speakers often say, I’d rather not instead of I don’t prefer.
Questions Using “Prefer”
To form a question with “prefer,” use Do or Does followed by the subject and base verb.
Examples
- Do you prefer coffee or tea?
- Does she prefer to work in silence?
- Do they prefer swimming or cycling?
These types of questions are useful for learning about someone’s choices or habits.
Prefer vs Would Prefer vs Would Rather
Though “prefer,” “would prefer,” and “would rather” are similar, they are used slightly differently.
- Prefer– Used for general or habitual preference I prefer apples.
- Would prefer– Used for specific situations or polite requests I would prefer to leave early today.
- Would rather– Used with base verbs and informal settings I’d rather stay in tonight.
While “prefer” is more flexible and formal, “would rather” is more casual in tone. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right expression for the situation.
Tips for Using “Prefer” Naturally
- Use gerunds for general habits and preferences.
- Use infinitives for specific situations or intentions.
- Be careful with prepositions like to, over, and rather than.
- Avoid saying I prefer not in unnatural ways instead use I’d rather not.
- Practice writing and speaking your preferences in full sentences to gain fluency.
Using “prefer” in a sentence may seem simple at first, but mastering its many grammatical forms can take your English to the next level. Whether you’re expressing personal likes, making comparisons, or discussing someone else’s choices, “prefer” is a versatile and useful verb. By understanding how to use it with nouns, gerunds, infinitives, and clauses, you can express your preferences clearly and correctly. Practicing different sentence structures with “prefer” will make your English sound more natural, confident, and accurate in both writing and conversation.