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 ongoing research examines what happens when people with Parkinson's exercise in a community environment, instead of alone at home. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 6 June 2026

Kitchens and mudrooms require durable, easy-to-clean flooring like hardwood or vinyl instead of carpet. —Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026

Due to the change in course since 2024, the race ran at 1 ¼ miles instead of its usual mile-and-a-half. —Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026

So, instead of scrambling to compare quotes or second-guess repair recommendations, homeowners have a more predictable process when something breaks. —Kathy Collins, Fortune, 6 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