rather

US /ˈræð.ɚ/
UK /ˈræð.ɚ/
"rather" picture
1.

used to indicate a preference or a choice

:
•
I'd rather stay home tonight.
•
Would you like tea or coffee? I'd rather have water.
:
preferablysoonermore willingly
2.

to a fair degree; quite

:
•
It's rather cold outside today.
•
She's rather good at playing the piano.
:
quitefairlysomewhatpretty
3.

on the contrary; instead

:
•
He didn't refuse; rather, he accepted with enthusiasm.
•
It wasn't a failure; rather, it was a learning experience.
:
insteadalternativelyon the contrary
:
would rather