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What is the difference between "eher" and " lieber" in German? Are the two synonyms? If yes, then which one is the most used?

11.06.2025 06:02

What is the difference between "eher" and " lieber" in German? Are the two synonyms? If yes, then which one is the most used?

eher is a fillword .. used in many situations. Originally it means: in an earlier time, before doing the thing you proposed — I do another (stupid) thing

Da würde ich ja eher nackt die Straße runter laufen als mit dir zu schlafen.

Example:

Why is there no great temptress figure in any of Tolkien’s major works?

Ich würde lieber mit Toni ausgehen als mit dir Shopping. (you would not say: Ich würde lieber nackt die Straße runter laufen … because you not plan it to do at all — not even on a later time)

lieber is more specific: I love it more .. I want it better

You cannot really say what is used more. As in other languages the “love” word is used a lot and also all derived words. But fillwords are also used a lot.

How do you say "I don't speak Italian yet, but I hope to speak it well one day. It would be a pleasure to learn Italian with you. Would you like to teach me Italian?" in Italian?