WOULD PREFER & OTHER PREFERENCE FORMS
Would prefer to + verb
Use would prefer to + base verb for a preference in a particular situation.
06LESSON TOPIC
He would prefer to play the drums
Would prefer is followed by to + base verb: would prefer to play. This differs from would rather, which takes the base verb without to. Preference structures can also be followed by reasons about lyrics, mood, rhythm, harmony, instrumentation and the effect of a particular genre.
MODELHe would prefer to play the drums.
She would prefer to listen to soft tunes because they are soothing.
| Structure | Correct form | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| would prefer + to + V1 | would prefer to play | preferred action |
| would rather + V1 | would rather play | same function, different grammar |
| prefer + noun | prefer soft music | general preference |
| like A more than B | like rock more than jazz | direct comparison |
1
He would prefer to play the drums.
2
She would prefer to listen to soft tunes because they are soothing.
3
For a long journey, I would prefer to choose relaxing music.
Compare the forms:would prefer to listen ✓ · would rather listen ✓