preferably
PREHF-ruh-blee
Preferably (adverb) means Ideally; if there is a choice. Example: “Send the documents by email, preferably before Friday.”
adverb
1
Ideally; if there is a choice.
"Send the documents by email, preferably before Friday."
"I'd like a room preferably with a view of the garden."
"Please bring a friend, preferably someone who can drive."
How to use preferably
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsed to state the most wanted option, while still leaving room for alternatives.
Common pairings
preferably before
preferably in person
preferably not
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more preferably
- Superlative
- most preferably
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Send the documents by email, _____ before Friday.
Etymology
From preferable plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for preferably
notably
probably
arguably
amicably
suitably
reliably
admirably
favorably
miserably
inexorably
reasonably
invariably
See all rhymes for preferably →
Frequently asked questions
What does “preferably” mean?
The word “preferably” means ideally; if there is a choice. In plain terms, used to state the most wanted option, while still leaving room for alternatives.
How do you pronounce “preferably”?
“Preferably” is pronounced PREHF-ruh-blee (/ˈpɹɛf.ɹəˌbli/ in IPA).
How do you use “preferably” in a sentence?
Here is “preferably” used in a sentence: “Send the documents by email, preferably before Friday.”
What part of speech is “preferably”?
“Preferably” is an adverb.
Is “preferably” a common word?
“Preferably” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between preferably and ideally?
Preferably and ideally both introduce the option someone would choose given a choice, and they are largely interchangeable. Preferably tends to focus more narrowly on a specific preference between alternatives, while ideally can suggest a broader best-case scenario.
How is preferably used in a sentence?
Preferably is usually placed at the start of a clause or after the item it modifies to indicate the favoured option, as in bring a jacket, preferably a waterproof one. It signals that the stated choice is wanted but not strictly required.
Is preferably a formal word?
Preferably is neutral in register and appears comfortably in both formal writing, such as instructions or requirements, and everyday conversation.
