rather quicker

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather quicker" is not standard in written English and may sound awkward to some readers.
It can be used in informal contexts to emphasize a degree of quickness, but it is generally better to use more conventional expressions. Example: "I expected the project to be completed rather quicker than it actually was."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"Because I am blessed with a good brain," he said, "I tend to get the right answer rather quicker and more often than most.

Independent

Europe's private sector is shrinking this month at a faster rate than in February, and rather quicker than analysts had expected.

The Guardian - Business

He was back at the BBC rather quicker than he thought, in charge of the radio success story of the generation.

The Guardian

Plus, it had the added advantage of loading on to your television screen rather quicker than some of its digital "red button" equivalents.

The Guardian

Stoke have some way to go yet but, as Van Gaal has proved, a new identity can be forged rather quicker than you might think.

The Guardian - Sport

With news of this import – it is worth noting that there was no denial – one might have expected the bank to be rather quicker to clarify its intentions for its investors, particularly given how the story gathered momentum.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

I would make those rather quick because these are going to be a pretty hectic few hours.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Paz is dead and out of fashion, so it seemed as if he was on a rather quick trip to the recycling bin.

The New York Times

The comment from the Vatican's chief spokesman Federico Lombardi that the trial "may be brief" has added to the feeling that the process will be a show trial and a rather quick one.

Independent

Earlier on Sunday Patten said on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show that it was a "rather quick judgment" to say that Newsnight was, in the words of its presenter Eddie Mair, "toast".

The Guardian

"This current administration doesn't particularly follow through on diplomatic policies, therefore I think they're rather quick to rush to military action, particularly against nations that they really do have a strong hold over," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "rather quicker" is acceptable, consider using more common alternatives like "somewhat faster" or "a bit quicker" to avoid sounding overly formal or archaic.

Common error

Avoid using "rather quicker" in informal contexts. It can sound stilted or unnatural in casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "a little faster" or "somewhat quicker".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather quicker" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifically intensifying the adverb "quicker". It modifies a verb or clause to indicate the degree to which an action is performed more rapidly. As Ludwig points out, it can be somewhat formal.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rather quicker" is a grammatically acceptable phrase used to indicate something is happening somewhat or slightly faster. Ludwig's analysis suggests it functions as an intensifier, adding emphasis to the adverb "quicker". Though correct, the Ludwig AI highlights that the phrase is rarely used. While permissible in formal or neutral registers like news reporting and scientific writing, alternatives such as "somewhat faster" or "a bit quicker" might be preferred for a more contemporary sound. As seen through Ludwig's examples, the phrase is most often found in sources like The Guardian and Independent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat faster

Emphasizes a moderate increase in speed.

slightly faster

Suggests a small difference in speed.

a bit faster

More informal way of saying 'slightly faster'.

noticeably faster

Highlights that the speed increase is easily observed.

considerably faster

Indicates a significant difference in speed.

appreciably faster

Similar to 'considerably faster' but perhaps more formal.

markedly faster

Stresses the distinct difference in speed.

more rapidly

A more formal alternative, focusing on the rate.

more swiftly

Similar to 'more rapidly' but with a slightly literary tone.

more expeditiously

The most formal option, suggesting efficiency and speed.

FAQs

What does "rather quicker" mean?

The phrase "rather quicker" means somewhat or slightly faster. It's a way of saying that something is happening at a more rapid pace than something else.

What are some alternatives to "rather quicker"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat faster", "slightly faster", or "a bit faster" depending on the context.

Is "rather quicker" grammatically correct?

Yes, "rather quicker" is grammatically acceptable, though it can sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned. In modern usage, "somewhat faster" or "a bit faster" are generally preferred.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "rather quicker"?

The phrase "rather quicker" is suitable in formal writing or speech. However, in everyday conversation, it may sound a bit stiff. It is important to consider the audience and context.