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

Last Updated: 03.07.2025 00:43

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

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.

Example:

Im happy but there is a heavy feeling of sadness in my heart that I just can't remove. Why am I like this?

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.

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)

What was your first impression of The Carter V by Lil Wayne? Did it feel like 2008 Wayne, when you heard the first few songs.