Expresses a preference for an alternative action rather than doing the stated action (used after a verb; 'if I were to do X, I'd rather do Y').
そんなに高い服を買うくらいなら、貯金したほうがいい。
Rather than buying such expensive clothes, you'd be better off saving the money.
待つくらいなら、先に行ってしまおう。
If it's just waiting, I'd rather go ahead first.
我慢するくらいなら、はっきり言ったほうがいい。
If you're going to put up with it, you'd better speak up clearly.
失敗して恥をかくくらいなら、挑戦しないほうがいいという人もいる。
Some people say it's better not to try at all than to fail and be embarrassed.