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

But, at Kelli’s urging, instead of reflecting on going too far or just calling it a night to cool off, Shamea still meets the other woman at the club, determined to enjoy Scottish nightlife. — Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 20 July 2026

For too long, conversations about Africa and aerospace have begun with what the continent supposedly lacks, while African women have been imagined as spectators or beneficiaries instead of astronauts and engineers. — Wanjiku Chebet Kanjumba, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 2026

Might as well own it outright and reap the benefits instead of just selling it more whiskey. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 19 July 2026

To further change things up from a typical white Air Force 1, Morant’s pearly pair includes thick rope shoelaces instead of the standard flat cotton look. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 19 July 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