adverb
rather, sooner, more likely
B1
'eher' is a modal adverb meaning 'rather', 'sooner', or 'more likely'. It expresses preference, probability, or comparative timing. It's gradable: comparative 'eher', superlative 'am ehesten'. Does not take a specific preposition; it modifies verbs, adjectives, or whole clauses, adjusting degree or likelihood.
Examples
Der Arzt erklärte, dass die Behandlung eher langfristig sein würde, wenn die Symptome nicht bald zurückgingen.
The doctor explained that the treatment would be more long-term if the symptoms did not subside soon.
Ich würde eher zu Hause bleiben als ausgehen.
I'd rather stay at home than go out.
Er kommt eher morgen als heute.
He's more likely to come tomorrow than today.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine a scale tipping slightly to one side — you prefer one option rather than the other
sounds like English 'air' — think 'I'd prefer that in the air' for preference
Notes
Although labeled here under 'adjective' (following the input 'Komparativ'), eher functions as an adverb meaning 'rather/sooner/more likely'. It commonly appears in comparative constructions and colloquial speech. Superlative form: 'am ehesten'.