USAGE OF RATHER

Now there have been several words in English which are being preferred to make your language seem more polished and ornamental. To refine your language skill so sleek and attractive the usage and preference of certain words instead of specific others are necessary which only can modulate your language appear stylish.

RATHER is a word which contributes to this part of refinement.
this word is normally being used as an alternative for instead of

for eg : read the exam portions instead of reading the novels.
read the exam portions rather than reading the novels

RATHER also means - prefer
for eg: i would prefer to be in Canada.
i would rather be in Canada.

Besides it also means kind of , quite, sort of
it is rather cold here.