in preference to

US /ɪn ˈpref.ər.əns tuː/

UK /ɪn ˈpref.ər.əns tuː/

1.

rather than; instead of

:

•

She chose to study art in preference to science.

•

We decided to walk in preference to taking a taxi.

:

instead of rather than in lieu of as opposed to

:

prefer preference preferably preferable preferred stock