Don't prefer and prefer not

[Ju]

I've found the old thread as follows.

A. I prefer not... means that it is my choice to not go.

B. I don't prefer... might mean that I don't have a
preference.

Do you agree?

For the rule A, can I say :
1. I prefer not to go out but stay at home instead.
2. I prefer not going out but staying at home instead.

I can't think of a sentence for the rule A.

Thanks.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

I've found the old thread as follows.

A. I prefer not... means that I would rather not go.

B. I don't prefer... might mean that I don't have a
preference.

Do you agree?

A is right as corrected. B means EITHER you don't have a preference OR you don't like what's been suggested.

For the rule A, can I say:

1. I prefer not to go out but stay at home instead.
2. I prefer not going out but staying at home instead.

Yes.

I can't think of a sentence for the rule B.

Try:

- You: Do you prefer juice with breakfast?
- Me: No, I don't prefer juice. I like milk just as much. I don't have a preference.

- You: Do you prefer sleeping on nails or hubcaps?
- Me: I don't prefer either. I like sleeping on sunny beaches.

Thanks.

You're welcome!