Would Rather/Prefer
What Is It?
Would Rather/Prefer refers to preference structures used for choices and polite alternatives.
B1-B2 reference topic in Modal and Hypothetical Structures.
Why Use It?
- State choices politely.
- Compare options.
- Use different patterns after rather and prefer.
Formation and Patterns
| Use | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Would rather | would rather + base verb | I'd rather practise speaking. |
| Would prefer | would prefer + to + V | She would prefer to start later. |
| Prefer noun/gerund | prefer + noun/V-ing + to + noun/V-ing | I prefer writing to speaking. |
Common Mistakes
- Using to after would rather.
- Mixing than and to in prefer structures.
- Forgetting a past form after would rather someone else acted: I'd rather you went.
Exceptions & Nuances
- Would rather can introduce a hidden complaint when directed at another person.