instead of

preposition

in·​stead of in-ˈste-də(v) How to pronounce instead of (audio)
-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
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That is what happens when states blame the demand instead of fixing the supply. Iulia Lupse, Sun Sentinel, 24 May 2026 March 21 – April 19 Your honesty lands better when your delivery feels warm instead of rushed. Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 24 May 2026 Insider tip If you’re booked in the MGM Tower at the Borgata, use the dedicated MGM Tower check-in desk instead of the main lobby reception. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 May 2026 One honest budget check can keep the idea useful instead of impulsive. Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for instead of

Word History

Etymology

Middle English in sted of

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of instead of was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Instead of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instead%20of. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

instead of

preposition
in-ˌsted-ə(v)
-ˌstid-
: in place of : as a substitute for
had milk instead of juice

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