RATHER (2)

Good morning. Yesterday we answered a request about rather and we learned one main use of this word: would rather indicates what you would prefer to do in a situation. Today we will look at a second common use of rather. Use 2: to indicate quantity --> more than a little but less than very. It is used as an adverb to modify other adverbs or adjectives. We often use rather for negative ideas. When we use rather for positive ideas, it means 'unusually' or 'surprisingly'. Synonyms: quite -- pretty -- fairly Example 1: It's rather hot today. I think I'll wear shorts and a T-shirt. (= It's quite hot. It's pretty hot. It's fairly hot.) Example 2: The cat is behaving rather strangely. Maybe we should take it to the veterinary. Example 3: Mr. Jenson was rather friendly when he came in to work this morning. Perhaps he has received some good news. (= How surprising! Mr. Jenson was friendly this morning. He usually isn't.) I hope this answers your question, Lluís. If you have any questions about today's Daily Vitamin, please don't hesitate to contact us. Have a lovely weekend!