may rather

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may rather" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to introduce a more likely possibility or to indicate preference. For example: "I may rather go for a walk than sit in the sun all day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It may, rather, be something more systemic.

The Economist

Arguably, the iPad is the apotheosis of Jobs's dream; and many people may rather like it.

The Guardian

Rather, it seems, it is, Zoe's controversial association with skinniness that may, rather unexpectedly, have proven to be her downfall.

The Guardian

If there's a riot going on, you may rather finish the night with a wordless avalanche of noise.

The New Yorker

The final text says that countries "may" (rather than "shall") provide detailed information and a timeframe for their emissions cuts.

The Economist

Note that JPMorgan used the word "may" rather than a more definitive statement that would suggest misconduct.

The New York Times

Indeed, Giants left tackle David Diehl may rather face starter Gaines Adams, Tampa Bay's first-round pick in 2007, than the 28-year-old rookie backup White.

The New York Times - Sports

A good repair mechanic may always find a job, but he may rather work for a big company where he doesn't have to be learning all the time".

The New York Times - Tech

But there are hints of satire in some of More's imaginings, and darker intimations that some utopian things one "may rather wish for than hope after".

The New York Times - Arts

"People also may rather self-segregate and look only in areas where they wouldn't be made to feel unwelcome just to avoid the possibility of discrimination," she said.

The New York Times

Yet, carriers may rather bind to the extensive capillary bed where shear stress is minimal.

Journal of Controlled Release

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may rather" to introduce a more suitable or preferable alternative, especially when contrasting options. For instance, "He may rather stay home than go to the crowded party."

Common error

Avoid using "may rather" when a stronger expression of preference is more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "I may rather have coffee," consider "I would prefer coffee" if you have a definite preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may rather" functions as a modal construction used to express preference or likelihood. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in suggesting a more probable scenario or a favored choice among alternatives, indicating a degree of possibility and inclination.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

39%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "may rather" is a grammatically correct construction used to express a preference or a more likely possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and commonly used phrase in English writing. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it serves to introduce alternatives or suggestions. While "may rather" indicates a possibility or inclination, alternatives like "would prefer" express a stronger, more definitive choice. Remember to consider the level of preference you wish to convey when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would sooner

Expresses a clear preference for one option over another.

might prefer

Indicates a slightly stronger inclination or likelihood.

may be more inclined

Similar to might be inclined to, but with a touch more uncertainty

might be inclined to

Formally expresses a tendency or willingness towards a particular choice.

perhaps prefer

Adds a touch of uncertainty to the preference.

could possibly

Emphasizes the possibility aspect more than the preference.

could conceivably

Highlights the possibility, often in a surprising or unexpected way.

might as well

Suggests acceptance of a less desirable option in the absence of a better alternative.

may well

Indicates a strong likelihood or probability.

might just

Suggests a spontaneous or unplanned decision.

FAQs

How can I use "may rather" in a sentence?

"May rather" is used to express a preference or suggest a more likely possibility. For example, "She "may rather" read a book than watch television" indicates her likely preference.

What are some alternatives to saying "may rather"?

You can use phrases like "would prefer", "might prefer", or "could possibly" as alternatives to ""may rather"", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "might rather" instead of "may rather"?

While "may rather" is the more common and generally accepted form, "might rather" can also be used, though it may sound slightly less formal or less common in modern usage.

What's the difference between "may rather" and "would rather"?

"Would rather" expresses a stronger preference than ""may rather"". "Would rather" indicates a definite choice, while "may rather" suggests a possibility or inclination.