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REFERENCE

preference

n. · v.
US //ˈpɹɛfɝəns// UK //pɹˈɛfɹəns// pref·er·ence
  1. 1 liking one thing more (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a feeling of liking or wanting one person or thing more than another.

    the act of selecting or favouring one thing or person over others based on personal taste or judgment.

    Example

    The hotel asked if we had a preference for a room with a view of the sea.

    Example

    The survey revealed a strong consumer preference for organic produce, even when the price point was significantly higher than conventional alternatives.

    Usage

    Usually takes the preposition 'for' followed by the preferred item.
    Pitfall
    I have a preference of tea over coffee.
    I have a preference for tea over coffee.

    While 'of' is sometimes used, 'for' is the standard preposition when expressing a liking for something.

  2. 2 the thing chosen (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the specific thing that you choose or like best.

    the specific object, person, or option that has been selected as the preferred choice.

    Example

    My first preference would be to travel by train rather than fly.

    Example

    If the primary candidate declines the offer, our second preference is a researcher currently based in Berlin.
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  1. 3 special treatment (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Law

    giving an advantage to one person or group over others.

    the state of being granted prior right or advantage; often used in legal or trade contexts regarding 'preferential' treatment.

    Example

    The company gives preference to applicants who already speak a second language.

    Example

    The trade agreement ensures that member states receive preference regarding the import of raw materials and heavy machinery.

    Usage

    Often appears in the phrase 'give preference to'.
  2. 4 to give an advantage (v.)
    C2 Proficiency American English Formal Technical

    to give someone or something a better position or special treatment.

    to grant preferential treatment to a person or entity, typically in an administrative or legal capacity.

    Example

    The new policy was designed to preference local businesses during the bidding process.

    Example

    The legislation was criticised for attempting to preference domestic manufacturers at the expense of international trade relations.

    Usage

    This verb use is rare outside of specific legal or bureaucratic documents.
Origin

From Middle French preference, from Medieval Latin preferentia. Doublet of preferans. Morphologically prefer + -ence.

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