Basic Details
Word: Rather
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: To a certain or significant degree; fairly or quite.
Synonyms: Quite, fairly, somewhat
Antonyms: Not at all, barely, slightly
Idioms and Phrases
- Rather you than me: This phrase is used to express that someone else should do something that is undesirable. Example: "If its a rainy day today, rather you than me having to go outside."
- Would rather be: This means to prefer to be somewhere or doing something else. Example: "I would rather be at the beach than doing my homework."
Usage Examples
Example 1: I would rather read a book than watch television during the holidays.
Example 2: The weather is rather chilly today, so dont forget your scarf.
Example 3: She is rather talented at playing musical instruments; she can play the piano and the violin beautifully.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "rather" comes from the Old English word "rther," which means "sooner" or "preferably"? It has been used in the English language for many centuries!
Famous Quote
"I would rather be a failure at something I love than a success at something I hate." George Burns
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "rather" mean?
a) Very much
b) To a certain degree
c) Not at all
d) Slightly
Answer: b) To a certain degree
2. Which of these is a synonym of "rather"?
a) Only
b) Quite
c) Surprising
d) Usually
Answer: b) Quite
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "rather"?
a) Somewhat
b) Barely
c) Fairly
d) Truly
Answer: b) Barely
4. Which sentence uses "rather" correctly?
a) It is rather too hot today for a picnic.
b) She runs rather than jogs quickly.
c) I would rather eat pizza than salad tonight.
d) They rather watched the movie last night.
Answer: c) I would rather eat pizza than salad tonight.
5. What does the idiom "rather you than me" suggest?
a) I prefer to do that task.
b) I wish you good luck.
c) I would not like to do that task.
d) I feel sorry for you.
Answer: c) I would not like to do that task.
