"he preferred to do" vs "he preferred do"

Question

"he preferred to do" vs "he preferred do"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'He preferred to do' is the more common and standard construction, where 'to do' is the infinitive form of the verb. 'He preferred do' is less common and might be used in informal or conversational English.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

This phrase is the standard way to express a preference for doing something. The 'to do' form is the infinitive form of the verb that follows 'preferred.'

Examples:

He preferred to do his homework before dinner.
She preferred to travel by train rather than by plane.

Alternatives:

He liked to do
He chose to do
He wanted to do
He decided to do
He opted to do

'He preferred do' is a less formal or conversational way of expressing a preference. It may be used in informal contexts or in speech.

Examples:

He preferred do it himself rather than ask for help.
She preferred do things her own way.

Alternatives:

He liked doing
He chose doing
He wanted doing
He decided doing
He opted for doing

Answer 1

he preferred to do

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

he preferred do

This phrase is correct but less common in formal writing.

"he preferred to do" vs "he preferred do"

he preferred to do

he preferred do

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