preferably

adverb

pref·​er·​a·​bly ˈpre-f(ə-)rə-blē 

: 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

Synonyms

• fain
• first
• rather
• readily
• soon
• willingly

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

This is one to blast from your speakers on a sunny day, preferably while driving with the windows down or with a drink in hand. —Vogue, 2 July 2024

If being a Hollywood star consists of having either major box office clout or a few Oscar nominations (and, preferably, at least one win), the great Donald Sutherland never had any of those. —Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 June 2024

Case management emphasized finding placements for families outside the shelter system, preferably beyond New York City, rather than stable housing, the comptroller’s office found. —Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 9 May 2024

For me, summer weekends are all about grilling, preferably with a cocktail in hand. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1700, in the meaning defined above