*As an adverb: to some degree or extent I think he's rather nice (he's nice to a degree)- this also is used to give emphasis to a good or bad qualities *Used to express personal preference: preferably I would rather sleep than wake up early (I would prefer to sleep than to wake up) *Used in the same was as 'instead' They got lost because he turned left rather than going straight. (They got lost because he turned left instead of going straight) *To show contrast; It's not cold. Rather, it's very hot. ( It's not cold. In contrast, it's very hot.) I hope this helps :)

I use this word to... * Express preferences this way: - Rather than listening to The Rollings Stones I prefer listen to The Beatles. - I would rather work at home than in the office.