If you're looking for a verb that relates to "predilection," you could use words like:
* Prefer (past tense: preferred)
* Favor (past tense: favored)
* Be inclined towards (past tense: was/were inclined towards)
For example, you could say:
* "She had a predilection for chocolate, but she preferred vanilla ice cream."
* "He favored the blue dress, but ultimately chose the red one."
* "I was inclined towards the vegetarian option, but decided to try the steak instead."