むしろ

むしろ is used to indicate preference or to suggest an alternative that is more appropriate or accurate than what was previously stated.

Common patterns

• AよりむしろB: B rather than A
• むしろ〜ほうがいい: it's better to... instead
• むしろ〜くらいだ: if anything, ...

Usage

Often used to correct or refine a previous statement, or to express that the opposite of what might be expected is true.

Similar words

• 却(かえ)って: on the contrary (emphasizes unexpected result)
• 逆(ぎゃく)に: conversely (focuses on reversal)
• どちらかといえば: if anything, rather