preference vs prefer

preference is a noun but prefer is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
preference	Yes	No	No	No
prefer	No	No	Yes	No

preference (noun)	prefer (noun)
grant of favor or advantage to one over another (especially to a country or countries in matters of international trade, such as levying duties)
the right or chance to choose
a predisposition in favor of something
a strong liking

preference (verb)	prefer (verb)
	select as an alternative over another
	like better; value more highly
	promote over another
	give preference to one creditor over another