rather
From WikiWord, the free dictionary
/ˈɹɑːðə/
English
Definitions
verb
- To prefer; to prefer to.
adjective
- Prior; earlier; former.
adverb
- More quickly; sooner, earlier.
- Used to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than)“I'd like this one rather than the other one.”
- Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary.“It wasn't supposed to be popular; rather, it was supposed to get the job done.”
- Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.)“I didn't want to leave. Or rather I did, just not alone.”
interjection
- An enthusiastic affirmation.“"Would you like some?" -- "Rather!"”
Related words
Synonyms
as lieflieferlieverfairlyquitesomewhatsoonerpreferablysort ofkindakind ofinsteadsoonthanwhereasmoreoverhowevermeanwhile