The meaning of RATHER is with better reason or more propriety : more properly. How to use rather in a sentence.

1. relatively or fairly; somewhat: it's rather dull. 2. to a significant or noticeable extent; quite: she's rather pretty. 3. to a limited extent or degree: I rather thought that was the case. 4. with better or more just …

We use rather as a degree adverb (rather cold, rather nice). We also use it to express alternatives and preferences (green rather than blue, coffee rather than tea, slowly rather than quickly). …

Feb 7, 2026 · It is used where a plain adjective needs to be modified, but cannot be qualified. When spoken, the meaning can vary with the tone of voice and stress.

You use rather before verbs that introduce your thoughts and feelings, in order to express your opinion politely, especially when a different opinion has been expressed.

rather /ˈrɑːðə/ adv (in senses 1-4, not used with a negative) relatively or fairly; somewhat: it's rather dull to a significant or noticeable extent; quite: she's rather pretty to a limited extent or degree: I rather …

Rather definition: More readily; preferably.

How to use 'rather', 'rather than' and 'would rather' in English. It is often difficult for learners of English to know when to use 'rather', 'rather than' or 'would rather'. The explanation below should help clarify …

RATHER definition: in a measure; to a certain extent; somewhat. See examples of rather used in a sentence.

Definition of rather. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels.