would rather

Idioms and Phrases

Prefer to, as in We would rather eat dinner before the movie . [Mid-1500s]

Example Sentences

McDonnell said he would rather see the city’s crime numbers rise because it would give him a real picture of the problem and a better idea of what he must do to handle it.

From Los Angeles Times

Those in the elite are thought to know things about each other that they would rather was not made public, and videos have been used in the past to humiliate and discredit a political opponent.

From BBC

The European Commission says it’s ready, if needs be, with retaliatory measures, but would rather avoid marching down the trade war path with Trump.

From BBC

Perhaps it is because we are no longer surprised that so many of our fellow Americans harbor so much spite that they would rather burn down this country than share its bounty with others who helped build it.

From Salon

However, if you would rather be distracted as you wait for races to be called, we’ve compiled a list of TV shows to stream that we believe will keep you entertained for some time because, if the 2020 election is an indicator, it could take hours, if not several days, to know the outcome.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• adopt
• choose
• go for
• pick
• promote
• put
• select
• suggest
• wish