rather
Pronunciation:
/ˈɹɑːðə//ˌɹɑːˈðɜː(ɹ)//ˈɹæðɚ/verb
Definitions
To prefer; to prefer to.
adjective
Definitions
Prior; earlier; former.
adverb
Definitions
More quickly; sooner, earlier.
Used to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than)
Example: I'd like this one rather than the other one.
Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary.
Example: It wasn't supposed to be popular; rather, it was supposed to get the job done.
Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.)
Example: I didn't want to leave. Or rather I did, just not alone.
interjection
Definitions
An enthusiastic affirmation.
Example: "Would you like some?" -- "Rather!"