The correct answer is option (C):
apples to oranges
The sentence "I prefer apples than oranges" contains a common grammatical error related to comparative adjectives. When expressing a preference between two things, the correct preposition to use with the verb "prefer" is "to," not "than." The word "than" is used for comparisons of superiority or inferiority, while "prefer" indicates a liking for one thing over another. Therefore, the correct construction is "I prefer apples to oranges."
Let's look at why the other options are incorrect:
a) "apples or oranges": The word "or" suggests a choice between two alternatives, but the sentence is stating a preference, not asking for a choice.
b) "apples and oranges": The word "and" connects two items that are liked equally or are being considered together. This doesn't convey the meaning of preferring one over the other.
d) "apples of oranges": This phrasing doesn't make grammatical sense in this context. It might imply a partitive relationship, like "a slice of orange," but that's not relevant here.
Thus, the correct way to express this preference is by using "to" after the noun being preferred. The phrase "apples to oranges" accurately completes the sentence, indicating a preference for apples over oranges.