Preferably vs. Preferable — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 2, 2024
Preferably refers to a more desirable choice or condition, while preferable indicates something being more desirable than others.
Difference Between Preferably and Preferable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Preferably is an adverb that suggests a preference for one option over others if possible. It is used to express a more desirable condition or choice in a given context. Preferable, on the other hand, is an adjective that describes something as being more desirable or suitable than other alternatives.
The usage context of these terms marks a key difference: preferably is used to modify verbs, indicating a preferred manner or condition, whereas preferable is used to modify nouns, highlighting a preferred choice among options.
Both terms signal a preference, but the manner in which they are used within a sentence differs. Preferably is employed to suggest how something should be done to align with someone's preferences, while preferable is used to compare directly between choices, stating which is more desired.
While both preferably and preferable indicate a higher desirability, they serve different grammatical functions. This distinction is crucial for correct usage in sentences, ensuring that the preference expressed is clear and grammatically sound.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adverb
Adjective
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Function
Modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs
Modifies nouns
Usage Example
"She would like to start work preferably at 8 AM."
"A job in the city is preferable for him due to the commute."
Context
Indicates a preferred condition or manner
Describes something as being a more desirable option
Comparative Forms
Not applicable
More preferable, most preferable
Compare with Definitions
Preferably
It is used to express a favorable condition or method.
Complete the task preferably before noon.
Preferable
Used in comparisons to express a higher desirability.
Quiet hours are preferable for studying.
Preferably
Prefers specifying how or in what manner something is desired.
Travel by train, preferably in a quiet carriage.
Preferable
Indicates a more suitable or favorable option.
Digital submissions are preferable to avoid paper waste.
Preferably
It implies a soft recommendation or suggestion.
Choose a password, preferably one that's hard to guess.
Preferable
Describes something as more desirable or suitable than alternatives.
An apartment is preferable for short-term stays.
Preferably
Focuses on the manner or condition of preferences in actions.
Dress warmly for the hike, preferably in layers.
Preferable
It's an adjective that indicates a better choice among options.
Fresh ingredients are preferable to canned ones.
Preferably
As an adverb, it suggests a preference for one choice or action over others.
I'd like to eat outside, preferably on the patio.
Preferable
It often precedes to when comparing two things.
Staying indoors is preferable to going out in the storm.
Preferably
Ideally; if possible
He would like a place of his own, preferably outside the town
Preferable
Better than some other option; preferred.
Preferably
More desirable or worthy than another; preferred
Coffee is preferable to tea, I think.
Preferable
More desirable or worthy than another; preferred
Coffee is preferable to tea, I think.
Preferably
In preference; by choice; in a preferable manner.
Preferable
Worthy to be preferred or chosen before something else; more desirable; as, a preferable scheme.
Preferably
In preference; by choice.
To choose Plautus preferably to Terence.
Preferable
More desirable than another;
Coffee is preferable to tea
Danny's preferred name is `Dan'
Preferably
More readily or willingly;
Clean it well, preferably with warm water
I'd rather be in Philadelphia
I'd sooner die than give up
Common Curiosities
How do you use preferably in a sentence?
You can use preferably to suggest a preference for how something should be done, e.g., "I would like to travel, preferably by train."
What is the difference between preferable and preferred?
Preferable describes something as more desirable compared to other options, while preferred refers to what one has already chosen as more desirable.
What does preferably mean?
Preferably is an adverb indicating a more desirable choice or condition if possible.
Is preferable always followed by 'to'?
Preferable is often followed by "to" when comparing two options, but it's not a strict rule.
Can you start a sentence with preferably?
Yes, you can start a sentence with preferably to indicate a preference, e.g., "Preferably, we should leave before dawn."
Can something be more preferable?
Yes, something can be described as more preferable when comparing it to multiple alternatives, indicating varying levels of desirability.
Can you give an example where preferably and preferable are used correctly?
Yes, "For dinner, choose fish, preferably salmon. A lighter meal is always preferable."
What is the adjective form of preferably?
The adjective form of preferably is preferable.
How do you decide between using preferably or preferable?
The choice depends on the sentence structure: use preferably to modify verbs and preferable to describe nouns as more desirable.
Can preferably and preferable be used interchangeably?
No, they cannot because preferably is an adverb and preferable is an adjective, each serving different grammatical functions.
Does preferable need to compare two things?
Preferable is typically used in comparisons but can also imply a general preference without explicitly stating the alternatives.
Is there a noun form of preferably?
The noun form related to preferably is preference, indicating the act of preferring or a thing preferred.
What makes something preferable?
A choice is considered preferable if it offers more advantages or is more desirable than the alternatives.
Is it grammatically correct to say 'as preferable'?
Yes, it can be grammatically correct in contexts where something is being presented as a preferred option, e.g., "As preferable, choose the eco-friendly option."
Do preferably and preferable have opposites?
Yes, the opposites would be undesirably for preferably and less desirable or undesirable for preferable.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
