- Used as an adverb ( in the same way as quite)
He worked rather hard today
He worked quite hard today
- Used with would ( means “prefer”)
I would rather have some tea. I have already had many cups of coffee today.
- Used as a prepositional phrase to contrast two things or situations
The teacher spoke to the entire class rather than to a few individuals about the dangers of using drugs.
- Used as an adverb immediately before a verb of thought or feeling, to express an opinion politely
I rather like your hair not dyed all colours of the rainbow.