Introduction
English spelling can be tricky, but few words confuse writers as much as preferably and preferrably. At first glance, both spellings look correct. They sound identical when spoken, appear in informal writing online, and even slip past people who are otherwise confident in their grammar skills. This often leads to hesitation, spell-check frustration, and uncertainty—especially when writing professionally.
The confusion usually comes from the root word prefer, which already contains a double “r.” Many people instinctively add another “r” when forming the adverb, assuming that preferrably must be right.
Although they look/sound similar, they serve completely different purposes.
In this guide, you’ll learn the real difference between preferably vs preferrably, which spelling is correct, why the confusion exists, how to use the correct form confidently, and how to avoid this mistake forever.
What Is “Preferably”?
Preferably is the correct and standard spelling of the word.
Clear Meaning
Preferably means ideally, if possible, or if it can be arranged. It expresses a preference rather than a strict requirement.
In simple terms:
Preferably = ideally or if possible
How It’s Used
- Used as an adverb
- Modifies verbs or entire sentences
- Indicates a desired option, not a demand
It is commonly used in:
- Professional writing
- Emails and instructions
- Academic and formal contexts
- Everyday spoken English
Where It’s Used
Preferably is accepted in:
- British English
- American English
- Australian English
- All standard English varieties
It is universally correct and recognized by dictionaries and style guides.
Examples in Sentences
- “Please submit the form by Friday, preferably before noon.”
- “We’d like to meet tomorrow, preferably in the morning.”
- “Choose a quiet location, preferably indoors.”
- “Candidates should have experience, preferably in marketing.”
Short Historical or Usage Note
The word preferably comes from prefer + -ably. Even though prefer ends with a double “r,” English spelling rules simplify the adverb form, resulting in preferably, not preferrably. This pattern appears in many similar words.
What Is “Preferrably”?
Preferrably is a misspelling.
Clear Meaning
There is no officially accepted meaning for preferrably because it is not a correct English word.
In simple terms:
Preferrably = incorrect spelling
Why People Use It
The mistake happens because:
- Prefer has two “r”s
- Writers assume the adverb must keep both
- Pronunciation does not reveal the spelling error
- Spellings like preferred and preferring reinforce the confusion
Where It Appears
You may see preferrably in:
- Informal online posts
- Social media
- Unedited comments
- Non-native or rushed writing
However, it is not accepted in:
- Academic writing
- Professional documents
- Published content
- Dictionaries or grammar guides
Examples of Incorrect Usage
- ❌ “Please arrive early, preferrably before 9.”
- ❌ “The meeting should be virtual, preferrably via Zoom.”
These should always be corrected to preferably.
Short Usage Note
No major dictionary recognizes preferrably. If you use it in professional or SEO content, it can reduce credibility and trust.
Key Differences Between Preferably and Preferrably
The difference between preferably vs preferrably is clear and absolute.
Key Differences (Bullet Points)
- Preferably is correct
- Preferrably is incorrect
- Preferably appears in all dictionaries
- Preferrably is a spelling error
- Preferably is used in formal writing
- Preferrably should never be used
Comparison Table
| Feature | Preferably | Preferrably |
|---|---|---|
| Correct Spelling | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Dictionary Accepted | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Part of Speech | Adverb | None |
| Used in Formal Writing | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| SEO-Safe | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Professional Use | ✔️ Recommended | ❌ Avoid |
Real-Life Conversation Examples
Dialogue 1
A: “Is preferrably spelled with two R’s?”
B: “No, it’s preferably—only one R.”
🎯 Lesson: Preferably is the only correct spelling.
Dialogue 2
A: “My spell-checker flagged preferrably.”
B: “That’s because it’s incorrect.”
🎯 Lesson: Trust spell-checkers on this one.
Dialogue 3
A: “Why does preferred have two R’s but preferably doesn’t?”
B: “Different grammar rules apply to adverbs.”
🎯 Lesson: Word forms don’t always keep the same spelling pattern.
Dialogue 4
A: “Can I use preferrably in casual writing?”
B: “You shouldn’t—it’s still wrong.”
🎯 Lesson: Informal does not mean incorrect spelling is acceptable.
Dialogue 5
A: “Which one is better for SEO?”
B: “Only preferably—the other hurts credibility.”
🎯 Lesson: Correct spelling matters for SEO and trust.
When to Use Preferably vs Preferrably
There is no real choice to make here.
Use “Preferably” When:
- Expressing a preference
- Making polite suggestions
- Writing instructions or guidelines
- Creating professional or SEO content
- Writing emails, articles, or reports
Examples:
- “Please respond today, preferably before 5 PM.”
- “Work experience is required, preferably in sales.”
Never Use “Preferrably” When:
- Writing anything meant to be read seriously
- Publishing online content
- Submitting academic or business work
- Writing for clients or employers
It is always wrong.
Simple Memory Trick
👉 Prefer + ably = preferably
👉 Only one double letter group per word
Or remember:
If your spell-checker hates it, so should you.
Fun Facts & Language Insights
1. This Is One of the Most Misspelled Adverbs
“Preferrably” is among the most common adverb spelling mistakes made by native English speakers.
2. English Drops Letters More Than You Think
English often simplifies spelling when adding suffixes, which is why preferably loses the extra “r.”
Conclusion
The difference between preferably vs preferrably is simple but important. Preferably is the correct, dictionary-approved spelling used in all forms of English. Preferrably is a common mistake that should always be avoided. While the double “r” in prefer causes confusion, the adverb form follows standard spelling rules.
Using the correct spelling improves clarity, professionalism, and credibility—especially in SEO and published content.
Next time someone hesitates between these two spellings, you’ll know exactly which one is right!
