rather

/ˈɹɑːðə//ˌɹɑːˈðɜː(ɹ)//ˈɹæðɚ/

verb

  1. 1

    To prefer; to prefer to.

adjective

  1. 1

    Prior; earlier; former.

adverb

  1. 1

    More quickly; sooner, earlier.

  2. 2

    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.”
  3. 3

    Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary.

    “It wasn't supposed to be popular; rather, it was supposed to get the job done.”
  4. 4

    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.”
  5. 5

    (degree) Somewhat, fairly.

    “This melon is rather tasteless, especially compared to the one we had last time.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

interjection

  1. 1

    An enthusiastic affirmation.

    “"Would you like some?" -- "Rather!"”

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