Introduction
A conditional sentence is usually composed by two parts: the if-clause (or conditional clause) that expresses the condition, and the main clause that expresses the consequence of that condition.
We have different structures for conditionals.
When we want to express preferences, we use would rather.
Form
We use would rather (past tense of will) as a normal modal verb, referring to the present tense.
Its structure is:
Subject + would/’d rather + verb in the infinitive…
NOTE: ‘d is the short form of would.
Example
- I‘d rather lie down than go for a walk.
- I’d rather vaccinate than be scared of the virus.
- I‘d rather break a relationship than live a lie.
Use
We use this structure to express preferences. It has the same meaning with the verb to prefer.
Summary
Would rather is an expression used to express preferences and has the same meaning with the verb to prefer. We use it as a normal modal verb, referring to the present tense.
Its structure is: we start with the subject of the sentence followed by would rather and a verb in the bare infinitive form.
For example:
— “I would rather play the drums than the trumpet.” = I prefer playing the drums than the trumpet.
— “She would rather eat pizza than soup.” = She prefers pizza than soup.
Let’s revise this content within the {Form} section. Take a look at the {Example} section that shows its use within a context.