‘Would Prefer’ & ‘Would Rather’
PRESENT/FUTURE Preference of the same person ‘would prefer’ is used in for specific instances and in response to offer of choices, whereas ‘prefer’ is more general and a declarative statement applicable for most situations/occasions. I generally prefer cycling to walking. I would prefer cycling to walking (if cycle is available/ if there is a cycle track). Would you like to cycle or walk? I would prefer cycling. I would prefer a window seat (to any other seat, if it is available). [what is mentioned in the bracket is understood or implicit]
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