Similar to ”would rather”, we use (would) prefer + to infinitive or noun to show our specific preference.
Example
- I would prefer to stay in a hotel near the airport.
- Most clients prefer to have breakfast in their bedroom.
- I prefer brown sugar to white sugar.
To express different choices, you can use either rather than + infinitive or instead of V-ing depending on the context.
Example
- I would prefer to be too early rather than be too late.
- I prefer to go with dad instead of staying here with mum.
The phrase prefer + V-ing comes in handy when we want to talk about preferences that apply in most cases, like our usual go-to activities.
Example
- I love running, but he prefers cycling.
To convey the different choices at hand, utilize the prefer + V-ing + to + V-ing format.
Example
- He prefers walking to cycling.
- I prefer sitting in the back to sitting in the front.
References