/ prɪˈfɜː(r); NAmE / verb
( -rr- ) (not used in the progressive tenses) to like one thing or person better than another; to choose one thing rather than sth else because you like it better :
[ vn ]
'Coffee or tea?' 'I'd prefer tea, thanks.'
I much prefer jazz to rock music.
I would prefer it if you didn't tell anyone.
A local firm is to be preferred .
[ vn - adj ]
I prefer my coffee black.
[ v to inf ]
The donor prefers to remain anonymous.
I prefer not to think about it.
[ vn to inf ]
Would you prefer me to stay?
[ v -ing ]
I prefer playing in defence.
[ v that ] ( formal )
I would prefer that you did not mention my name.
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IDIOMS
see charge noun
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French preferer , from Latin praeferre , from prae before + ferre to bear, carry.