usage of the verb "prefer"

[Lost_Soul]

Hi, everyone :)

I'm not sure I use the verb "prefer" in the right way.
My understanding is like so:

We use prefer + Gerund to express something in general
We use prefer + Infinitive to express some immediate, single action

For example:

I prefer to get to the US (rather) than waiting for Russia to get anythere
I prefer drinking tea (rather) than drinking vodka
I prefer to drink a shot (rather) than to go home with a thirsty throat

Are they correct?
Also can I substitute rather than for over (I prefer drinking tea over drinking vodka)?

Thank you and have a nice day :)

[Yankee]

Hi LS

I didn't really understand your first sentence, but I wouldn't recommend mixing the formats.

Here are some possible formats (X and Y are verbs):

1. I prefer X-ing to Y-ing.
(This states a general preference. This is not a reference to a choice between X and Y.)

2. I always prefer to X rather than Y.
(This is always your chosen preference when given the choice between X and Y.)

3. I would prefer to X rather than Y.
(This is your preference as regards a current (single) choice between X and Y.)
.
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Lost_Soul]

Hi, Amy

I hear what you're saying, thank you for your comments :)

[Yankee]

Hi LS

If I understand correctly what you want to say, then I'd suggest a little rewording:

I would prefer to be where the US is now rather than (to) wait for Russia to get there/anywhere.
.
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Lost_Soul]

[Yankee]

.
I don't know which conversation with Jamie you're talking about, but I would say that 'go' or 'move' would be better than 'get'.

'Move to the US' suggests a permanent or long-term relocation, but you would use 'get to a place' to refer to an arrival.
For example: I got to the meeting on time.
.
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln