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

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What makes users feel more comfortable is transparency and basically a say into the ads approach instead of just a 'trust me' model that Zuckerberg is pushing. Kiri Masters, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 Under a current temporary deal, U.S. levies on Chinese imports are 30% instead of the previous 145%. Alina Selyukh, NPR, 21 May 2025 Moreover, work requirements, plus the proposal to check members’ eligibility twice a year instead of once, exponentially increases program bureaucracy at both the state and federal level. Toni Preckwinkle, Chicago Tribune, 21 May 2025 Additionally, onside kicks will be taken from the 34-yard line instead of the 35-yard line, and players on the kicking team will line up 1 yard closer to where the ball can be recovered. Jayna Bardahl, New York Times, 21 May 2025 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 24 May. 2025.

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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