prefer

Universal Words verb (-rr-) (not used in the progressive tenses) to choose one thing rather than sth else because you like it better: [VN] 'Coffee or tea?' 'I'd prefer tea, thanks.' * I 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. * [Vtoinf] The donor prefers to remain anonymous. * I prefer not to think about it. * [VNtoinf] Would you prefer me to stay? * [V-ing] I prefer playing in defence. * [Vthat] (formal) I would prefer that you did not mention my name. IDIOMS see CHARGEn.