If you say that one thing is preferable to another, you mean that it is more desirable or suitable.
例句
A big earthquake a long way off is preferable to a smaller one nearby...远处发生大地震总比在附近发生小地震好。The hazards of the theatre seemed preferable to joining the family paint business...经营剧院的风险似乎比加入家族涂料产业的风险要小一些。
英汉词典释义
adv.
更可取地;更好地;宁可
The best treatment is antibiotics, preferably by injection.最佳的治疗方法是使用抗生素,能够注射就更好。Clean the car from the top, preferably with a hose and warm water.最好用软管和温水从顶部开始清洗汽车。
英英词典释义
Adverb
1. more readily or willingly;
"clean it well, preferably with warm water""I'd rather be in Philadelphia""I'd sooner die than give up"