prefiero
/pɾefjeɾo/from spelling rules
prefiero is the Spanish way to say "I prefer".
The term prefiero is used to express that you like one thing better than another. You can say Yo prefiero as a standard and straightforward way to say "I prefer". Depending on the context, other expressions may be used to convey similar sentiments, such as Me gusta más (I like more), Me inclino por (I lean towards) or Tengo preferencia por (I have a preference for).
Which one should you use?
While prefiero is the standard present tense form, you might use preferiría to express your preference more politely or to describe a hypothetical situation. In more casual settings, the colloquial phrase Me tira más can be used to indicate a strong preference.
How does it change in a sentence?
prefiero is the first-person singular present indicative of the verb preferir. If you use prefiero followed by a clause to describe an action performed by someone else, you should follow it with the conjunction que and a verb in the subjunctive mood.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾefjeɾo/
Did you know?
- While prefiero expresses a choice, the colloquial expression me tira más literally translates to 'it pulls me more'. It describes a preference as an irresistible magnetic attraction rather than a conscious decision.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, saying prefiero can sound too direct or demanding when ordering at a restaurant. To be more polite, speakers often use the conditional preferiría or the phrase quisiera to soften the request.
- The verb preferir is a stem-changing verb, meaning the 'e' in the root changes to an 'ie' in prefiero. This vowel shift is a common feature of Spanish but can be a stumbling block for those expecting a regular pattern.
Examples in context
- Yo prefiero el caféI prefer coffee
- Me inclino por el cine de arteI lean towards art cinema
- Prefiero comer en casaI prefer to eat at home
- Me tira más el fútbol que el baloncestoI have a stronger preference for soccer than basketball
- Prefiero el café con leche.I prefer coffee with milk.
- No quiero la ensalada, prefiero la pasta.I don't want the salad, I prefer the pasta.
- ¿Quieres ir al cine? Prefiero quedarme en casa.Do you want to go to the cinema? I prefer to stay at home.
Example conversation
Choosing a place for dinner.
- Elena¿Quieres ir al restaurante italiano?Do you want to go to the Italian restaurant?
- DanielNo, prefiero comer en casa hoy.No, I prefer to eat at home today.
- ElenaEstá bien, yo cocino algo para ti.That's fine, I will cook something for you.
- DanielGracias, Elena, eres muy amable.Thanks, Elena, you are very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
