had rather do

had rather (do something)

Would prefer to do something; would be more inclined or willing to do something. A less common variant of "would rather (do something)." I had rather not talk to you right now. I had rather go see a movie, to be honest, but we can go dancing if you like. I'd rather walk on hot coals than talk to that jerk ever again!

See also: rather

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

had rather do something

 and had sooner do something

prefer to do something. (The had is usually expressed as the contraction, 'd.) I'd rather go to town than sit here all evening. They'd rather not.

See also: rather

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.