rather

rath-er · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    To a certain extent; somewhat.

  2. 2.

    Used to indicate one's preference.

  3. 3.

    More precisely; more accurately.

  4. 4.

    On the contrary; instead.

  5. 5.

    (British) Used to express emphatic agreement.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    would rather — Prefer to.
  • •
    rather than — Instead of.
  • •
    or rather — Used to correct what you have said.
  • •
    had rather — Would prefer to (archaic).
  • •
    rather you than me — Used to express relief that one doesn't have to do something.

Related words

See also: fairly, prefer, quite, somewhat
Synonyms: fairly, preferably, quite, somewhat

Etymology

From Old English hrathor, comparative of hrathe ("quickly, soon"), from Proto-Germanic hraþiz.