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How to pronounce rather
Say it like this: /ˈɹæðɚ/. Listen to real recordings below and compare how it sounds in different accents.
What does rather mean?
advUsed to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than)
“They'd rather've spent the money on a holiday.”
Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary.
“She didn't go along, but rather went home instead.”
Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.)
“I didn't want to leave. Or rather I did, just not alone.”
adjPrior; earlier; former.
“Now no man dwelleth at the rather town of Damietta.”
intjAn enthusiastic affirmation.
“Would you like some? –Rather!”
nounA choice or a preference.
“I would rather do it by myself. I would rather, if I had my rathers, not be seen doing it.”
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Pronunciations and meanings from Wiktionary via kaikki.org, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Recordings by Wikimedia Commons contributors. This page is shared under the same license.