rather please

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather please" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not commonly used and may confuse readers, as it lacks context and clarity. Example: "I would rather please you with my efforts, but I'm unsure how."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Lindsey, I think I'd rather — Please don't call me sweet".

The New Yorker

Rather, please base your letter on your concerns about the risk the bill poses to the vulnerable".

The Guardian - Opinion

Rather, please keep your eyes to the ground, keep submitting photos of sad stuff on the street, and help us keep this depression train rolling".

The New York Times

Lawmakers might think twice about refusing to act if they knew that female voters were taking down the names of those who would rather please corporate interests than stand up for a woman's right to earn equal pay for equal work.

The New York Times

Rather, please consider our relatively poor imitation as a very sincere form of flattery.

TechCrunch

But please-oh-please do not let it be the Xoom 2. Or rather, please don't release the damn thing anytime soon.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Appearance: Rather pleased with themselves.

The Guardian - Money

There is a rather pleasing symmetry between the two series.

The Economist

McQuaid [UCI president] will be (ironically) rather pleased that someone thinks it works.

The Guardian - Sport

If you've no world of your own, it's rather pleasing to regret the passing of someone else's.

The New Yorker

The Condé Nast managing director and international vice-president said he was "rather pleased to see our magazines performing robustly" in the competitive environment.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider rephrasing to use stronger, clearer expressions like "I would prefer" or "please consider". This avoids potential confusion and makes your intent more direct.

Common error

Avoid combining "rather" with "please" when a direct request or statement of preference is more effective. This combination can sound awkward or unclear; instead, opt for simplicity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather please" functions as a request with an implied preference. Ludwig AI indicates it's not standard English but can be found in some contexts. It aims to politely express a preferred action or choice, though it may lack clarity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rather please" attempts to blend preference and politeness in a request, but according to Ludwig AI, it's not considered standard English and may cause confusion. While examples do exist, especially in news and media, its awkwardness undermines its effectiveness. For clearer communication, alternatives like "I would prefer" or a direct, polite request are recommended. The analysis suggests that prioritizing clarity over a potentially confusing combination results in more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would you rather

Focuses on preference between options, shifting from request to a choice scenario.

if you please

Adds a polite tone to a request, emphasizing courtesy over preference.

please instead

Indicates a requested substitution, changing the emphasis to replacement.

please preferably

Highlights a preferred option, altering the directive nature of the original phrase.

I would prefer

Expresses a direct preference, diverging from a combined preference and request.

please if possible

Conditions the request on feasibility, making it less assertive.

kindly please

Emphasizes politeness, where "rather" implies preference, adding gentility.

please be so kind

Turns the request into a form of asking for a favor, increasing politeness.

if it isn't too much trouble

Softens the request by considering the inconvenience it might cause, reducing directness.

if you don't mind

Seeks assurance that the request is not burdensome, indirectly making the request.

FAQs

How can I use "rather" and "please" correctly in a sentence?

Use "rather" to indicate a preference and "please" to make a polite request. For example, "I would "rather have" tea, please" combines both elements correctly.

Is it grammatically correct to say "rather please"?

While not strictly ungrammatical, "rather please" is uncommon and can sound awkward. Alternatives like "I would prefer" are generally clearer and more widely accepted.

What does "rather" imply in a sentence?

"Rather" indicates a preference or alternative. It's used to express what one would prefer over another option, as in "I would "rather go" to the beach than stay home".

When should I use "please" in a sentence?

Use "please" to add politeness to a request or to soften a demand. For example, "Please help me with this task" is a polite way to ask for assistance.