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pref‧e‧rence W3
1 [uncountable and countable] if you have a preference for something, you like it more than another thing and will choose it if you can [↪ prefer]:
in preference to something (=rather than something) 
Use clear English in preference to technical language.
Use clear English in preference to technical language.2 [uncountable and countable] when someone is treated more favourably than other people, often when he or she has been treated unfairly in the past : Racial preferences are a way to make up for years of discrimination against minorities.
Racial preferences are a way to make up for years of discrimination against minorities. give/show preference (to somebody) In allocating housing, preference is given to families with young children.
In allocating housing, preference is given to families with young children.