rather

rather

adverb

Definition of RATHER

1

by choice or preference <I would rather go to the movies than stay at home>

Synonyms fain, first, preferably, readily, soon, willingly

Related Words alternately, alternatively, either, instead; electively, optionally; desirably, gladly, wishfully; obligingly, voluntarily

Near Antonyms reluctantly; forcibly, willy-nilly

Antonyms involuntarily, unwillingly

2

as a substitute <don't think of the placement test as torture but rather as a chance to show off how much you know>

Synonyms first, rather

Related Words alternately, alternatively

3

to some degree or extent <I say, don't you think that's rather expensive for a hamburger?>

Synonyms enough, kindly [chiefly Southern], kind of, like, moderately, more or less, pretty, quite, rather, relatively, something, somewhat, sort of

Related Words acceptably, decently, passably, tolerably; little, negligibly, nominally, slightly, vaguely; half, halfway, incompletely, part, partially, partly, partway

Near Antonyms awfully, beastly, deadly, especially, exceedingly (also exceeding), exceptionally, extremely, frightfully, greatly, heavily, highly, hugely, mightily, mortally, particularly, surpassingly, terribly, very; considerably, extensively, significantly, substantially