This word stems from the Old English “lēof,” meaning “dear, pleasant.” It has Germanic origins, related to the words “leave” and “love,” and it’s an old-fashioned adverb meaning “as gladly,” which might be used in a comparative sense. For example, “I’d like to come to the party tonight, but I’d just as lief stay home with my dogs.” You’re expressing that while you want to attend your friend’s party, you’d be just as happy at home on the couch with your dogs — a sentiment that many of us can understand. “Lief” isn’t commonly used in the modern lexicon, but pulling it out might add a bit of flair when you’re turning down a party invitation.