A preference is a greater liking for one option, thing, or person over others. It can also mean special treatment given to someone or something.
“Preference” comes from Medieval Latin *praeferentia*, “a putting before,” from *praeferre*, “to prefer.” It keeps the sense of lifting one thing ahead of the rest.
Your preferences form a kind of invisible map of who you are—what you choose when no one is pushing you. That’s why data about preferences is so valuable: it quietly reveals patterns in behavior and personality.
In discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity, 'preference' has sometimes been used in ways that suggest these are chosen or changeable, which has been weaponized to deny rights or legitimacy. More precise language distinguishes between enduring orientations/identities and situational likes or dislikes.
Use 'preference' for choices among options (e.g., 'music preference') and avoid it for core aspects of identity (e.g., say 'sexual orientation' or 'gender identity' rather than 'sexual preference').
["sexual orientation","gender identity","orientation","identity"]
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