easy
I would rather read than watch TV.
What does Rather mean?
Rather can mean instead or somewhat.
Dictionary definition
Used to show a preference, or to mean somewhat or fairly.
Example sentences
Rather in a sentence
medium
The puzzle was rather tricky at first.
hard
The author chose a quiet ending rather than a loud surprise.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice rather in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Rather
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does rather mean?
Rather means instead or somewhat.
Practice 2
Which word is closest in meaning to rather?
Instead is close to rather in this main meaning.
Practice 3
Choose the best word to complete the sentence: I would ____ read than watch TV.
Rather best completes the sentence.
Practice complete
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You completed 3 questions.
Pronunciation coach
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Rather
Voice settings
Sounds like
rath · er · strongest beat: rath
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordRather.
Partadverb.
MeaningRather means Rather can mean instead or somewhat.
ExampleExample: I would rather read than watch TV.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- rath · er
- Strongest beat
- rath
- Ending
- er
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on rath.
Your turn
Say Rather
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Nice work—you practiced rather.
Synonyms
Words like Rather
Antonyms
Opposite words
exactlyUse as a meaningful contrast in this word's main sense.
equallyUse as a meaningful contrast in this word's main sense.
Synonym practice
Want to practice rather synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "Nora used crayons instead of markers," then compare close word choices. Practice rather synonyms.
Word family
Rather word family
Base word
rather
adverb
rather
Base form.
Related words
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Learning activities
Practice Rather and explore more word games
Cards labelled “Practice RATHER” keep this word in focus. Explore cards open games with other words.
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Sentence Builder
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Context Clue Challenge
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Explore · Scramble
Scrambled Bees
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