instead of

preposition

in·​stead of in-ˈste-də(v) 

-ˈsti-

: in place of : as a substitute for or alternative to

chose tea instead of coffee

Examples of instead of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Seeing a crudo dish on any menu these days isn’t unusual, but the hamachi with white ponzu, serrano and garlic oil is a standout, as is the show stopping lobster risotto, made with sushi rice instead of the usual arborio. —Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2024

Cardi herself has worn a bow before, but one made of hair instead of the ribbon variety. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 22 Apr. 2024

Aleman’s older daughters, 17 and 21, could do their schoolwork at home instead of at the library or relatives’ homes. —Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2024

The seafood chain became a permanent menu option instead of a limited-time promotion, according to ABC News. —The Enquirer, 22 Apr. 2024

Out of safety concerns, Columbia is holding Monday's classes online instead of in person. —USA TODAY, 22 Apr. 2024

After age 2, children begin to explore with their hands instead of their mouths, and by age 4, most have completely given up the habit of putting toys in their mouths. —Laura Lu, Ms, Parents, 21 Apr. 2024

But instead of deflecting, Trump’s move tied him even closer to the issue by placing his political fate in the hands of judges and state lawmakers willing to go far beyond where most voters stand. —Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2024

Most millennials have already bought their own home, instead of waiting to inherit one in their sixties. —Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 10 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English in sted of

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

instead of

preposition

in-ˌsted-ə(v),

-ˌstid-

: in place of : as a substitute for

had milk instead of juice