preferably

adverb

pref·​er·​a·​bly ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-blē How to pronounce preferably (audio)
: by choice or preference
used to indicate what is wanted or preferred
The work should be done soon, preferably by the end of the week.
Applicants should hold a college degree, preferably with teaching experience.
Water thoroughly during the coolest time of day (preferably early morning), then allow soil to dry completely … before watering again.Michael MacCaskey
Mound flour on a work surface (preferably wooden) and make a large well in center with your fingertips.Lynne Rossetto Kasper

Examples of preferably in a Sentence

I like football, but preferably watching from the stands rather than being down on the field
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On November 2, the Vice President of the United States made a surprise appearance on Saturday Night Live to court voters—preferably Pennsylvanians—just a few days before the election. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 3 Nov. 2024 How to Reduce Stroke Risk The new guideline recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week. Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 1 Nov. 2024 The 49ers need to get help for their defensive line, preferably a versatile one who can rush on the edge and inside. Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 1 Nov. 2024 Schedule your self-care sessions and process what happened, preferably with someone who excels at listening. Mark Travers, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for preferably 

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preferably was in 1700

Dictionary Entries Near preferably

Cite this Entry

“Preferably.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preferably. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

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