rather in German
rather in German is eher, lieber, im Gegenteil — rather means used to show a preference for one thing over another.
rather in German
eher
Used to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than) [from 9th c.]
lieber
Used to specify a choice or preference; preferably, in preference to. (Now usually followed by than) [from 9th c.]
im Gegenteil
(conjunctive) Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary. [from 14th c.]
sondern
(conjunctive) Used to introduce a contradiction; on the contrary. [from 14th c.]
eher
(conjunctive) Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.) [from 15th c.]
um genau zu sein
(conjunctive) Introducing a qualification or clarification; more precisely. (Now usually preceded by or.) [from 15th c.]
ziemlich
(degree) Somewhat, quite; to an unexpected degree. [from 16th c.]
eher
(degree) Somewhat, quite; to an unexpected degree. [from 16th c.]
recht
(degree) Somewhat, quite; to an unexpected degree. [from 16th c.]
What does "rather" mean?
-
adv Used to show a preference for one thing over another.
"I would rather stay home than go to the party."
-
adv To some noticeable degree; somewhat or quite.
"The exam was rather difficult."
-
adv Used to correct or clarify a previous statement; more accurately.
"She is not lazy, or rather, she is simply very tired."
Vocabulary Flow
Learn more English words in German.
Vocabulary Flow serves English words with the German meaning, one at a time — pronunciation and an example each time. Scroll it either direction.
Learn English in German
rather in a sentence
- I would rather stay home than go to the party.
- Would you rather have tea or coffee with your cake?
- The exam was rather difficult.
- It's rather cold outside today.
Similar words in German
Common German translations
Frequently asked questions
What is "rather" in German?
"rather" in German is eher, lieber, im Gegenteil. rather means: Used to show a preference for one thing over another.
How do you use "rather" in a sentence?
Example: "I would rather stay home than go to the party." In German, "rather" is eher, lieber, im Gegenteil.
Are there other ways to say "rather" in German?
Yes — German has 7 translations listed for "rather": eher, lieber, im Gegenteil, sondern, um genau zu sein, ziemlich.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
