This is the 322nd most frequent Afrikaans word.
eerder
Sooner / Rather
In this case, 'eerder' emphasizes the concept of true or actual outcome in the event described.
Dit is moeilik om te sê wie die wedstryd eerder gewen het.
It is difficult to say who truly won the match.
In this sentence, 'eerder' is used to express a preference between two options.
Ek sou eerder tuis bly as om in die reën uit te gaan.
I would rather stay at home than go out in the rain.
Here, 'eerder' contrasts an initial misunderstanding with a corrected understanding occurring subsequently.