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

The governor's order gives Barnes power to restrict or prohibit fireworks displays in Utah's cities and towns, instead of leaving those decisions to the communities. — CBS News, 27 June 2026

Another condemned the preference shown for evangelical Christian translations of the Bible instead of a diversity of translations that are inclusive of many denominations. — Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 June 2026

Terrell Carstens, a 25-year resident of Brookhaven, said she is frustrated the city made little effort to find places to cut costs instead of raising the rate. — Reed Williams, AJC.com, 27 June 2026

Years ago his wife talked him into treating the travel itself as part of the vacation instead of waiting to relax until arrival. — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English in sted of

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for instead of

• above
• foxglove
• hereof
• thereof
• whereof
• dove
• glove
• love
• shove
• hereinabove

Kids Definition

instead of

preposition

in-ˌsted-ə(v), 

-ˌstid-

: in place of : as a substitute for

had milk instead of juice