The usages of the word "prefer"
The following are sentences I wrote about the usages of the word "prefer". I know that sentence a and b are correct, because they are standard usages. But, I am not sure if sentence c, d, and e are also correct or not. Could anyone please help me with this? Thank you!

a. I prefer to win rather than (to) lose.

b. I prefer winning to losing.

c. I prefer to win instead of losing.

d. I prefer winning instead of losing.

e. I prefer winning rather than losing.

Question

The usages of the word "prefer"
The following are sentences I wrote about the usages of the word "prefer". I know that sentence a and b are correct, because they are standard usages. But, I am not sure if sentence c, d, and e are also correct or not. Could anyone please help me with this? Thank you!

a. I prefer to win rather than (to) lose.

b. I prefer winning to losing.

c. I prefer to win instead of losing.

d. I prefer winning instead of losing.

e. I prefer winning rather than losing.

Answer

I agree with Mojave. Parallel structure, while not strictly required, is good style.

Answer

All good. However, with C, mixing an infinitive with a progressive ("to win" with "losing") sounds a little awkward.

Answer

C, D and E look fine to me :)
Good job!
M

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