A2adverb2K

UK/["/ˈrɑːðə(r)/"]/US/["/ˈræðər/"]/

Meaning of Rather

used to mean ‘fairly’ or ‘to some degree’, often when you are disappointed, surprised or expressing slight criticism

In simple words: to a certain degree or extent; somewhat

Rather in a sentence

  • I would rather eat pizza than sushi.
  • She is rather talented at playing the guitar.
  • I would rather stay home today.
  • This movie is rather boring compared to the last one.
  • I find it rather difficult to wake up early.

How to use Rather

Use 'rather' to express a moderate degree of something, often in a slightly surprising way. It's more formal than 'pretty' but less than 'very'. Avoid in slang or casual speech.

Grammar pattern

rather + adjective/adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'rather' as a bridge—it's not too much, just enough.

Related words

Collocations with Rather

  • rather unusual
  • rather interesting
  • rather expensive
  • rather annoying

Synonyms for Rather

Opposites of Rather

Common mistakes with Rather

  • Using 'rather' with a negative adjective (e.g., 'rather bad' instead of 'quite bad').
  • Confusing 'rather' with 'instead' in sentences.
  • 'Rather' is often incorrectly replaced by 'quite' in negative contexts.

Compare Rather with Somewhat, Fairly, Quite

Rather appears in

Rather in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Rather

What does Rather mean?

to a certain degree or extent; somewhat

What is the definition of Rather?

used to mean ‘fairly’ or ‘to some degree’, often when you are disappointed, surprised or expressing slight criticism

How do you use Rather in a sentence?

I would rather eat pizza than sushi.

Can you give another example of Rather?

She is rather talented at playing the guitar.

What are synonyms for Rather?

Common alternatives include somewhat, fairly, moderately, quite.

What is the opposite of Rather?

Opposite meanings include hardly, barely, not really.

What words go with Rather?

It commonly pairs with rather unusual, rather interesting, rather expensive, rather annoying.

What are common mistakes when using Rather?

Using 'rather' with a negative adjective (e.g., 'rather bad' instead of 'quite bad'). Confusing 'rather' with 'instead' in sentences. 'Rather' is often incorrectly replaced by 'quite' in negative contexts.

How do you pronounce Rather?

US: /["/ˈræðər/"]/, UK: /["/ˈrɑːðə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Rather?

Use 'rather' to express a moderate degree of something, often in a slightly surprising way. It's more formal than 'pretty' but less than 'very'. Avoid in slang or casual speech.

What CEFR level is Rather?

"Rather" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.