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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?

12.06.2025 09:09

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

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)

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.

Example:

The players who will dominate MLB trade deadline rumors — and how likely it is they’ll be moved - New York Post

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

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

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

I’m a 25 year old teacher teaching at boys school & I have colleagues younger than me. I caught one of my students telling her he wanted her as his teacher instead & it hurt my feelings. They compliment her a lot. It makes me jealous. What do I do?