would rather vs. had better

would rather

In expressions of preference rather is commonly preceded by would:

• We would rather go to the lake than stay in town for the weekend.
• Which would you rather do—play professional baseball or sell used cars?

In formal style, you sometimes see should instead of would:

• I should rather my daughter attended a private school.

had better

"had better" is most commonly used to make recommendations. It can also be used to express desperate hope as well as warn people.

Examples:

• You had better take your umbrella with you today. (recommendation)
• That bus had better get here soon! (desperate hope)
• You had better watch the way you talk to me in the future! (warning)