preferential
UK: ˌprefəˈrenʃl | US: ˌprefəˈrenʃl
adj. showing or giving preference to one person, group, or thing over others
adj. receiving or enjoying an advantage or privilege
preferential = prefer<to favor> + ent<adjective suffix> + ial<adjective suffix>
- prefer: From Latin praeferre (prae- "before" + ferre "to carry/bring"), meaning "to favor or prioritize."
- ent: A suffix forming adjectives, often from Latin -entem, indicating a state or quality.
- ial: Another adjective suffix, from Latin -ialis, denoting "relating to."
Etymology Origin:
The word preferential traces back to Latin praeferre, combining prae- (before) and ferre (to carry). Over time, prefer evolved in English to mean "to favor," and the suffixes -ent and -ial were added to form the adjective preferential, describing something that involves or grants favoritism. The logic reflects carrying one option "before" others—literally prioritizing it.
The company offers preferential treatment to its long-term employees.
Students from rural areas may receive preferential admission to the university.
The government imposed preferential tariffs on imported goods.
She has a preferential seat at the conference due to her VIP status.
The policy ensures preferential access for disabled individuals.