Preferoj

Preferoj are the plural form of the Esperanto noun prefero, meaning a preference or a favored choice. The term is widely used in Esperanto linguistic literature to discuss the relative favorability of lexical items, grammatical constructions, or stylistic options. As a neuter noun, prefero takes the suffix -j in the plural, adhering to Esperanto's regular plural formation rules.

In comparative studies of Esperanto texts, researchers catalogue preferoj to document phenomena such as lexical substitution, collocation patterns, or tendency for certain verbs to accompany particular objects. For example, a survey of literary works might reveal that "dormi" often accompanies "trankvile" whereas "labori" is frequently paired with "kun respondeco"—these recurrent combinations are recorded as preferoj.

The concept is also employed in the creation and revision of the Esperanto dictionary. Lexicographers note preferoj when deciding which word form is most natural in context, ensuring that a dictionary entry reflects the common usage favored by the Esperanto community. This practice aligns with the dictionary’s mandate of serving as a practical guide rather than a prescriptive rule book.

In everyday usage, speakers occasionally mention preferoj when comparing options: "Mi havas du preferoj: iri pere aŭ iri kondi" (I have two preferences: to go by bus or to go by train). Even though the term is technical, it is part of the routine vocabulary for those engaged in language teaching, translation, or linguistic analysis in the Esperanto field.