preferisco
The English phrase "I prefer" is translated into Italian as preferisco.
The phrase is used to state that you like one thing more than another. You can provide reasons for your choices using perché (because), and if you want to express that you like something very much, you can use the adverb tantissimo (very much).
How does it change in a sentence?
preferisco is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb preferire (to prefer). When comparing two things, you may use più di (more than).
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers sometimes mistakenly try to use the verb piacere to express preference. Instead, use preferisco as the direct way to say "I prefer".
Did you know?
- While preferisco expresses a choice, Italians often use the phrase mi piace di più (it pleases me more) in casual conversation to mean 'I prefer'.
- In Italian, you can say preferirei to express a polite preference, which literally means 'I would prefer' and is used to soften a request.
- The verb preferire is an -ire verb that requires an extra 'isc' in its conjugation, which is why preferire becomes preferisco and not prefero.
Examples in context
- Io preferisco i cani.I prefer dogs.This sentence shows how to use preferisco with animals.Tatoeba #4484221 by Guybrush88, translation #2261103 by Hybrid
- Io preferisco il vino.I prefer wine.This sentence shows how to use preferisco with drinks.Tatoeba #14020603 by Guybrush88, translation #14008566 by frpzzd
- Io preferisco il caffè.I prefer coffee.This sentence shows how to use preferisco with beverages.Tatoeba #3635562 by Guybrush88, translation #789735 by Eldad
- Preferisco la frutta fresca.I prefer fresh fruit.
- Ho una preferenza per il vino rosso.I have a preference for red wine.
- Prediligo il caffè italiano al caffè americano.I strongly prefer Italian coffee over American coffee.
- Preferisco uscire con gli amici.I prefer going out with friends.
- Mi piace di più andare al mare.I prefer going to the beach / I like going to the beach more.
- Trovo meglio mangiare in un ristorante italiano.I find it better to eat in an Italian restaurant.
- Preferisco il mare più della montagna.I prefer the sea more than the mountains.
- Preferisco la città perché mi piace l'energia che trasmette.I prefer the city because I like the energy it conveys.
- 300 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are choosing a movie to watch.
- AlessandroVuoi vedere un film horror?Do you want to see a horror movie?
- ChiaraNo, preferisco una commedia romantica.No, I prefer a romantic comedy.
- AlessandroVa bene, Chiara, scegli tu.Alright, Chiara, you choose.
- ChiaraGrazie, Alessandro, sei molto gentile.Thank you, Alessandro, you are very kind.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
