as in rather
by choice or preference
I like football, but preferably watching from the stands rather than being down on the field
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of preferably
At the movies, mysterious disappearances that cue a hero’s rescue mission are usually those of young women and girls, preferably white, bonus points for blonde.
—
Jessica Kiang, Variety, 22 May 2026
The naturally slower pace can create space to carve out some time to relax with a good book (preferably in a hammock with views of the water and a frothy beverage in hand).
—Holly Corbett, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026
Attendees are asked to bring a dish of food to share, preferably in a disposable container.
—Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026
To make one, grab a clean, thick sock (preferably a larger one) and fill it with uncooked rice, oats, or flaxseed.
—Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 18 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for preferably
Jessica Kiang, Variety, 22 May 2026
The naturally slower pace can create space to carve out some time to relax with a good book (preferably in a hammock with views of the water and a frothy beverage in hand).
—Holly Corbett, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026
Attendees are asked to bring a dish of food to share, preferably in a disposable container.
—Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026
To make one, grab a clean, thick sock (preferably a larger one) and fill it with uncooked rice, oats, or flaxseed.
—Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 18 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for preferably
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preferably
Adverb
-
Curling tomato leaves are certainly alarming, but sometimes the cause is rather simple.—
Kim Toscano,
Southern Living,
29 May 2026
-
Who should the Knicks rather play?—
Bob Harkins,
New York Times,
28 May 2026
Adverb
-
The author, Arthur Koestler, wrote it to explore how a dedicated Communist could bring himself willingly to admit to absurd crimes.—
Jonathan Chait,
The Atlantic,
27 May 2026
-
Interim leaders willingly accept responsibility during moments of uncertainty, instability and organizational vulnerability.—
Mariama Boney,
Forbes.com,
26 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Preferably.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preferably. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.
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