Yes, you have a preference for certain people, you prefer one person over another for certain reasons or purposes. I have a preference for my cousin when sharing personal things as she understands and will challenge my way of thinking, I have a preference for talking politics to another friend. I like going out for drinks with that person, but only engaging in small talk. I have a preference to go out with sister as I don't are about dancing like a looney. I prefer to hang with neighbour on days I'm unwell as she suffers the same thing and so doesn't judge. Everyone has preferences, but rarely do people share their preferences incase it upsets the other person for sounding blunt or too honest. So you use a reason that doesn't come across as personal to them. Such as "I like being single at the moment." "Too tired today." I'm not feeling it." Because saying "I find you boring." I do not find you attractive. I can't stand you talking about religion :D I don't want to waste my time on talking about things that don’t matter to me. I don't like how you dress, speak, laugh," all these maybe honest, but can be upsetting to hear and receive because they are just based on YOUR preferences, someone else may find them interesting, attractive, and love religion. So be kind, say no not for me, in a gentle but straight way.

Liking or disliking someone is a matter of preference. The right word for it: "consciousnesses." It helps adjust thoughts and surroundings.