Langimage
English

preferred

|pre/ferred|

B2

🇺🇸

/prɪˈfɜrd/

🇬🇧

/prɪˈfɜːd/

(prefer)

more desirable

Base FormPresent3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounAdjectiveAdjectiveAdverb
preferpreferspreferspreferredpreferredpreferringpreferencepreferableunpreferablepreferably
Etymology
Etymology Information

'preferred' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeferre,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry.'

Historical Evolution

'praeferre' transformed into the Old French word 'preferer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'prefer' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to carry before,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to like better or choose as more desirable.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

past tense or past participle form of 'prefer'.

She preferred tea over coffee.

Adjective 1

regarded as more desirable or suitable.

The preferred method of payment is credit card.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39