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

And, instead of wearing a plain bikini, be like Chelsea and opt for a statement-making pattern, like the one on this scalloped-style two-piece. —Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025

Yet for performing arts, that connection usually only translates through reality competitions instead of narrative fiction. —Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 27 Apr. 2025

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Make the Beds Aiming for bunks that would be easy to access and make up with linens, designer Ashley Gilbreath fashioned niches with a staircase instead of a ladder. —Laura Fenton, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Apr. 2025

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