This is the 8112th most frequent Japanese word.
寧
"寧" means "tranquility," "peace," or "rather/prefer."
In this sentence, "寧ろ" (rather) is used to express that the resolution was surprisingly smooth compared to expectations.
この問題については寧ろスムーズに解決できました。
Regarding this problem, we resolved it rather smoothly.
Here, "寧静" (tranquil) describes a peaceful and quiet setting, emphasizing calmness.
寧静な環境で作業することが好きです。
I enjoy working in a tranquil environment.
"寧ろ" (rather) shows contrast, highlighting the actual situation of complexity against initial assumptions.