What it means
というより is used to correct, refine, or adjust a description by saying that B is more accurate than A. It often corresponds to “rather than A, it is more like B” or “not so much A as B.” The speaker usually presents A as an understandable first impression and then gives a more precise characterization with B. It can follow a noun, a na-adjective, an i-adjective, or a plain-form verb phrase. The form itself does not change for politeness; the rest of the sentence can use a polite ending when needed.
Usage note
というより is commonly used for clarification or correction, not only for choosing between two alternatives. For a straightforward choice between two actions or things, a construction such as AよりBのほうが may be more suitable.
How to use it
彼は教師というより作家です。
He is more a writer than a teacher.
この町は便利というよりにぎやかです。
This town is lively rather than convenient.
この料理は辛いというより苦いです。
This dish is bitter rather than spicy.
彼は歌うというより踊ります。
He dances rather than sings.
彼は教師というより作家だ。
He is more a writer than a teacher.
この町は便利というよりにぎやかだ。
This town is lively rather than convenient.
この料理は辛いというより苦い。
This dish is bitter rather than spicy.
彼は歌うというより踊る。
He dances rather than sings.
Example sentences
この資料は説明というより、初心者向けの案内です。
Rather than an explanation, this material is more like a guide for beginners.
彼の話し方は丁寧というより、少し堅苦しいです。
The way he speaks is less polite and more a little stiff.
この町の冬は寒いというより、風が強