rather than

conjunction
UK: /ˈrɑːðə(r) ðæn/
US: /ˈræðər ðæn/

  1. Instead of; as opposed to.

    1. I would prefer to stay at home rather than go out tonight. [ ] [ ]
    2. They chose to invest in renewable energy rather than continue relying on fossil fuels. [ ] [ ]

  2. More accurately; used to correct or refine a previous statement.

    1. She felt annoyed rather than sad about the situation. [ ] [ ]
    2. The problem is a lack of resources rather than a lack of willingness to help. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

in preference to instead of as opposed to
rather than adverb

  1. Used to express preference.

    1. I'd rather go to the park than stay inside all day. [ ] [ ]
    2. He would rather work from home than commute to the office every day, given the choice. [ ] [ ]
rather than preposition

  1. Used to introduce something that is preferred to something else.

    1. I chose tea rather than coffee. [ ] [ ]
    2. She opted for the salad rather than the heavier pasta dish on the menu. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "rather than" in English means: Instead of; as opposed to., More accurately; used to correct or refine a previous statement..

The phonetic transcription of "rather than" is /ˈrɑːðə(r) ðæn/ in British English and /ˈræðər ðæn/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "rather than": in preference to, instead of, as opposed to.

Example usage of "rather than": "I would prefer to stay at home rather than go out tonight.". More examples on the page.