First
First adverb - As a substitute.
Usage example: eat peas? I'd eat cockroaches first
Rather is a synonym for first in in preference topic. In some cases you can use "Rather" instead an adverb "First".
Nearby Word: firstly
Rather
Rather adverb - By choice or preference.
Usage example: I would rather go to the movies than stay at home
First is a synonym for rather in preferably topic. Sometimes you can use "First" instead an adverb "Rather".
Cite this Source
Rather and First. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/first/rather
First & Rather. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/first/rather>.
Rather or First. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/first/rather.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "first" and "rather" have occurred on timeline