A2adverb 2K

Rather

UK /["/ˈrɑːðə(r)/"]/ US /["/ˈræðər/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

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

Listen to definition

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

Examples

• 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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

• somewhat
• fairly
• moderately
• quite

Antonyms

• hardly
• barely
• not really

Common mistakes

• 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.