RATHER Meaning and
Definition
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Rather is an adverb that is used to express a preference or choice between options, situations, or actions. It indicates a partiality towards a specific option or outcome, often suggesting a preference for one thing over another.
The term "rather" can also be used to indicate degree or intensity, expressing a relatively high level of something. It can signify a considerable extent or a significant degree, usually in relation to quality, quantity, or size.
Furthermore, "rather" can also be employed to convey hesitation or uncertainty in a statement or response. It signifies a slight doubt or reservation about a situation or proposition, often by prefacing a response or opinion.
In summary, "rather" is an adverb that denotes a preference or choice, intensity or degree, and hesitation or uncertainty. Whether expressing a preference, indicating extent, or showing hesitation, this versatile term adds depth and subtlety to our language.
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More readily or willingly; with better liking; somewhat; more so than otherwise; in some degree; more correctly speaking; sooner; the rather, the sooner; the more so; I had rather, I would sooner; rather deaf, slightly or somewhat deaf.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for RATHER *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for RATHER
Etymology of RATHER
The word "rather" has its origins in Old English. It can be traced back to the West Germanic language group, where it is derived from the Old English word "hrathor", meaning "sooner, rather, more readily". The word further evolved in Middle English to "rathe", which had the same meaning. Over time, the spelling shifted to "rather", as we know it today.
Idioms with the word RATHER
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had rather do sth
The idiom "had rather do something" is used to express a strong preference for doing something or a preference for one thing over another. It indicates that someone would prefer or choose to do a particular action or attend a particular event.
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had rather do
The idiom "had rather do" is used to express a strong preference or inclination towards a particular action or choice. It is often used when someone would prefer or choose to do one thing instead of another.
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sooner rather than later
"Sooner rather than later" is an idiomatic expression that means to do or accomplish something promptly or at the earliest possible opportunity instead of delaying it or putting it off. It emphasizes the importance of taking action quickly or making an arrangement sooner in order to prevent possible negative consequences or delays.
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I'd rather face a firing squad than do
The idiom "I'd rather face a firing squad than do" is an exaggerated expression used to convey an intense aversion or extreme objection towards a particular action or task. It implies that the person would prefer to undergo something as severe and intimidating as facing a firing squad rather than performing the mentioned action.
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rather than
The idiom "rather than" is used to present a preference or choice between two options. It indicates the selection of one option over another.
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rather you, him, etc. than me
The idiom "rather you, him, etc. than me" is used to express a preference for another person to face a difficult or undesirable situation instead of oneself. It implies avoiding a particular situation, responsibility, or consequence by attributing it to another person.
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rather you, etc. than me
The idiom "rather you than me" is used to express relief or gratitude that someone else is dealing with a difficult or unpleasant situation instead of oneself. It implies that the speaker is glad not to be in the other person's place and would prefer not to face what they are going through.
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I'd rather face a firing squad than do sth
The idiom "I'd rather face a firing squad than do something" is an exaggerated expression that signifies an extreme aversion or resistance towards a particular activity or task. It implies that the person using the idiom would prefer to endure a punishment as grave as being executed by a firing squad rather than engage in the said action. This idiom conveys the intensity of their dislike or fear towards the activity.
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I'd rather face a firing squad than do something
The idiom "I'd rather face a firing squad than do something" is an exaggerated statement used to express an extremely strong aversion or preference for avoiding a particular action or situation. It implies that the person would choose a severe punishment like being executed by a firing squad over undergoing or engaging in the mentioned activity.
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would rather
The idiom "would rather" is used to express a preference for one thing or situation over another. It indicates a choice or desire for a particular option.
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rather you than me
The idiom "rather you than me" is an expression used to convey relief or sympathy for someone else who is going through a challenging or difficult situation, implying that the person speaking would not want to experience the same thing themselves.
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had rather
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be a bit/rather steep
The idiom "be a bit/rather steep" means that something is excessively high or expensive. It can refer to a price that is too high or a situation that is challenging or difficult to deal with.
Similar spelling words for RATHER
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