Rather, I am truly heartened...

[Tan Elaine]

Son says, "It's heartening to see them making up."

Father responded,"Rather, I am truly heartened to hear that they have become a more loving couple."

Is the use of 'Rather' correct in the above sentence?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Rover_KE]

Yes, but the whole conversation sounds stilted.

Where did you read it?

Rover

 

[Tan Elaine]

Yes, but the whole conversation sounds stilted.

Where did you read it?

Rover

Hi Rover,
It is an example given by my friend who asks me if the use of 'Rather' to begin a sentence is correct. She intends "Rather" to state that the father is viewing the relationship from another angle.

 

[Tan Elaine]

I would like to have the views of other members.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Tan Elaine]

Hi Moderators

Why is there only a member responding?

I believe there should other members who have their views.

I would be grateful if any other member could respond to my question.

 

[Barb_D]

It *is* stilted.

"What make ME happy is...."

"What *I* find heartening about the situation is...."

(Note: I've never used "heartening" in my life. Only "disheartening.")

 

[Tan Elaine]

Hi Barb

The following is from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary.

heartening adjective
making you feel happier and more positive
It was heartening to see so many people at the rally.

Why do you find "heartening' incorrect usage?

Thanks.

 

[Barb_D]

I did not say it was incorrect. I said (or rather, agreed) that it was stilted and suggested more natural ways to express this thought. I also added that my own experience has not included using this word. You seemed dismayed that you hadn't heard from anyone else, so I gave an additional opinion.

 

[Tan Elaine]

I did not say it was incorrect. I said (or rather, agreed) that it was stilted and suggested more natural ways to express this thought. I also added that my own experience has not included using this word. You seemed dismayed that you hadn't heard from anyone else, so I gave an additional opinion.

Many thanks, Barb. I'm sorry I misinterpreted what you said. I was too hasty in jumping to the conclusion.

Many thanks for your guidance and my apologies once again for my wrong interpretation.

Best regards

Elaine

 

[Barb_D]

No need to apologize. Rather, I'm heartened by the thought that it may have helped. ;-)