rather

adverb

1. 1

   to some (great or small) extent

   it was rather cold

   the party was rather nice

2. 2

   to a degree (not used with a negative)

   quite tasty

   quite soon

3. 3

   on the contrary

   rather than disappoint the children, he did two quick tricks before he left

   he didn't call; rather (or instead), he wrote her a letter

4. 4

   more readily or willingly

   clean it well, preferably with warm water

   I'd rather be in Philadelphia