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]
‘Would Prefer’ & ‘Would Rather’
Want to read more?
Subscribe to grammarwithstyle.net to keep reading this exclusive post.