“Preferring” vs. “Prefer To” – Mastering Preference Expressions

When expressing choices or likes, “preferring” and “prefer to” are two constructions that often come into play.

Although they both indicate preference, their use can depend on the grammatical structure of the sentence.

Quick Summary

“Preferring” and “prefer to” are both grammatically correct, but they are used in different contexts. “Preferring” is the present participle form of the verb “prefer,” often used in continuous tenses. “Prefer to” is used when followed by a verb to indicate a choice or inclination towards an action.

“Preferring” vs. “Prefer To” – Which is Correct?

The choice between “preferring” and “prefer to” hinges on the sentence structure. Here’s a quick reference guide:

Phrase	When to Use	Example
Preferring	As part of a continuous tense or as a gerund	I am preferring this option for now.
Prefer to	When followed by a verb, indicating a choice	I prefer to walk rather than drive.

How to Use “Preferring”

“Preferring” is the present participle of “prefer” and is used in continuous tenses, which are less common for this verb as preference is generally a state and not an ongoing action. However, it can also be used as a gerund. Here are examples of how to use it:

• As a gerund:
  “Preferring coffee over tea is a matter of taste.”
• In continuous tenses (less common):
  “She is preferring to stay silent during the meeting.”

How to Use “Prefer To”

“Prefer to” is used when indicating a choice or preference for one action over another. It is followed by a verb in its base form. Here are examples of how to use it:

• Expressing a choice:
  “I prefer to read at night.”
• Comparing actions:
  “They prefer to dine in rather than order takeout.”

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct phrase to complete the sentences:

1. I _ (preferring/prefer to) use public transportation to reduce my carbon footprint.
2. Are you _ (preferring/prefer to) have the window seat?
3. When it comes to desserts, he is _ (preferring/prefer to) chocolate over vanilla.
4. We _ (preferring/prefer to) not discuss this issue right now.
5. She’s _ (preferring/prefer to) working from home these days.

Answer Key:

1. prefer to
2. preferring
3. preferring
4. prefer to
5. preferring

Conclusion

Understanding when to use “preferring” and “prefer to” is essential for articulating choices and preferences accurately. “Preferring” can be used as a gerund or in continuous tenses, while “prefer to” is typically followed by another verb to denote a preferred action.

Recognizing the correct context for each will help you communicate your preferences effectively.