rather than

Speech parts

1. rather than - Preposition

2. rather than - Conjunction

Meaning

And not.

Used to indicate that the following alternative is less preferred.

I'd like to go home early rather than risk the roads later.

rather than

instead of; in preference to.
I'd prefer a dog rather than a cat.

Source: en.wiktionary.org

Synonyms

alternatively rather alternately preferably instead sooner lest instead of

Antonyms

likewise similarly additionally moreover furthermore further
Show all antonyms

Examples

You need a change of soul rather than a change of climate. Seneca

Be persecuted, rather than be a persecutor. Be crucified, rather than be a crucifier. Be treated unjustly, rather than treat anyone unjustly. Be oppressed, rather than be an oppressor. Be gentle rather than zealous. Lay hold of goodness, rather than justice. Isaac the Syrian

I choose the likely man in preference to the rich man; I want a man without money rather than money without a man. Themistocles

Lock your door rather than suspect your neighbor. Lebanese Proverb

He who smiles rather than rages is always the stronger. Japanese Proverb

It is better to receive awards that you don't deserve rather than deserve them and not receive them. Portuguese Proverb

Close letter words and terms

rather late rather limited to rather stupid rather the reverse rather ugly rather you than me