11.   Customers showed a preference for pricier goods in the first quarter, the company said.

12.   Emphasis also will be put on helping rural communities develop programs for attracting retirees, many of whom already are showing a preference for such areas.

13.   During the U.S. budget debate, investors have shown a preference for the security of German government bonds versus U.S. Treasuries over the last month.

14.   Faulk said customer research showed a preference for spring water, and Dasani is a filtered brand.

15.   Even while majoring in history and economics at Yale, Cutler had shown a preference for getting on with things.

16.   He expects people to show a preference for stocks that pay dividends, a financial security blanket in scary times.

17.   In the past, many women have shown a preference for cheap shaving products, often using disposable razors or razors made for men.

18.   Jackson has shown his preferences by benching Rider six times this season.

19.   Lately, consumers and financial institutions have shown a preference for conducting business over the Internet rather than over proprietary networks like Intuit Services.

20.   Left-handed mothers also show a preference for cradling on the left-hand side of the body.