1) These apples are rather tasty.
What does that mean to you?
a) The are somewhat tasty.
b) They are tasty and that is surprising.
c) They are surprisingly tasty.
or....
Gratefully,
Navi
rather
Re: rather
It depends how the sentence is delivered.
This usage of "rather" is often very complex. In many cases, it is a heavily understated way of saying that the apples are extremely tasty. This applies, for instance, when the adjective has a positive connotation, as in this case. Depending on context, it can carry additional sub-meanings:
Sometimes there can be an element of surprise or contradiction:
"That was a good meal." "Oh, I thought it was rather uninspiring."
The intended meaning will depend on context.
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This usage of "rather" is often very complex. In many cases, it is a heavily understated way of saying that the apples are extremely tasty. This applies, for instance, when the adjective has a positive connotation, as in this case. Depending on context, it can carry additional sub-meanings:
- ... so I shall have another one.
- (in a supermarket, for instance) ... so I suggest we buy those ones.
- ... so I had better not buy too many of them as apples upset my stomach
Sometimes there can be an element of surprise or contradiction:
"That was a good meal." "Oh, I thought it was rather uninspiring."
The intended meaning will depend on context.
Signature: Phil White
Non sum felix lepus
Non sum felix lepus
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