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!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
had rather do something
and had sooner do somethingprefer 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.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
had rather
Also,
had sooner. Would prefer. For example,
I had rather you let me do the driving, or
He'd sooner switch than fight. This idiom today is often replaced by
would rather. [Late 1500s] Also see
just as soon.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.