Would rather, would prefer or prefer?

1. Prefer - Would rather

1.1. Prefer and Would rather express general preferences. They have the same meaning and are interchangeable.

1.1.1. After prefer, we use the verb in the –ing form.

1.1.1.1. EXAMPLE: I prefer swimming than jogging.

1.1.2. Would rather is followed by the infinitive without to.

1.1.2.1. EXAMPLE: I would rather swim than jog

2. Would rather - Would prefer

2.1. Would rather and would prefer express specific preferences. They have the same meaning and are interchangeable.Would rather and would prefer express specific preferences. They have the same meaning and are interchangeable.

2.1.1. Would rather is followed by the infinitive without to.

2.1.1.1. EXAMPLE: We went to the zoo last weekend. Today, I would rather go to the movies

2.1.2. Would prefer is followed by "to + infinitive or a noun."

2.1.2.1. EXAMPLE: We went to the zoo last weekend. Today, I would prefer to go to the movies.