preferable
Preferable (adjective) means More desirable or better than an alternative. Example: “A short delay is preferable to canceling the trip altogether.”
How to use preferable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBetter as an option, when compared with something else.
Preferable already means "more preferred," so avoid saying "more preferable" — it's redundant.
Word forms
more preferable comparative, most preferable superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A short delay is _____ to canceling the trip altogether.
Etymology
From prefer plus the adjective-forming suffix -able, likely influenced by the French preferable.
Rhymes for preferable
See all rhymes for preferable →Frequently asked questions
What does “preferable” mean?
The word “preferable” means more desirable or better than an alternative. In plain terms, better as an option, when compared with something else.
How do you pronounce “preferable”?
“Preferable” is pronounced PREHF-ruh-bl (/ˈpɹɛf.(ə.)ɹə.b(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “preferable” in a sentence?
Here is “preferable” used in a sentence: “A short delay is preferable to canceling the trip altogether.”
What part of speech is “preferable”?
“Preferable” is an adjective.
Where does the word “preferable” come from?
The word “preferable” comes from French. From prefer plus the adjective-forming suffix -able, likely influenced by the French preferable.
Is “preferable” a common word?
“Preferable” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.