would rather, prefer

Prefer and would rather both say that you like one thing more than another. They take different verb forms, so learn each one with its pattern.

Prefer: in general

Prefer is for what you usually like. The other thing comes after to. When you compare two activities, use the -ing form for both.

Would prefer: now, in this situation

Would prefer ('d prefer) is for what you want now or at a certain time. A verb after it takes to.

Would rather: base verb, then than

Would rather ('d rather) also means what you want in a situation. It is followed by the base verb, without to. The other choice comes after than.

The negative is would rather not.

Common mistakes

• × I'd rather to stay here. → I'd rather stay here.
• × I prefer tea than coffee. → I prefer tea to coffee.
• × I would rather walking. → I would rather walk.