preference

/ˈprɛfərəns/

/ˈprɛfərəns/

Other forms: preferences

If you have a strong liking for something, you have a preference for it. You might have a preference for apples, but there are some days when you're stuck eating a banana instead.

If you grant favors to one person over another, then you are showing a preference or bias. The United States often gives preference to traditional allies like Britain or Canada. In your science class, it's clear that the professor has a preference for certain students and calls on them more often. Preference also refers to a choice or the right to choose — your friend might have a strong preference for which movie you'll see tonight.

Definitions of preference

1. noun

   the right or chance to choose
   synonyms: druthers

   types:

   wish

   the particular preference that you have

   type of:

   alternative, choice, option

   one of a number of things from which only one can be chosen
2. noun

   a predisposition in favor of something
   synonyms: orientation, predilection

   type of:

   predisposition

   an inclination beforehand to interpret statements in a particular way
3. noun

   a strong liking
   “my own preference is for good literature”

   synonyms: penchant, predilection, taste

   types:

   acquired taste

   a preference that is only acquired after considerable experience

   weakness

   a penchant for something even though it might not be good for you

   type of:

   liking

   a feeling of pleasure and enjoyment
4. noun

   grant of favor or advantage to one over another (especially to a country or countries in matters of international trade, such as levying duties)
   type of:

   advantage, vantage

   the quality of having a superior or more favorable position