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
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.
As thousands drive over the aging Cape bridges, just remember that Maura Healey wanted to joke around with Seth Meyers instead of working for the people who put her in the driver’s seat. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 10 Mar. 2025 For mealtime, consider these instead of crostini or crackers as a carb companion for Slow-Cooker Cheddar Soup or Easy Chili. Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2025 The campaign is more focused instead of sprawling as players search for a way out of the quarantine zone. Gieson Cacho, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2025 Seattle is pivoting to a wide-zone scheme, which Macdonald feels puts less of a burden on the offensive line by getting them on the move instead of attempting to merely move defensive linemen off their spot every snap. Michael-Shawn Dugar, The Athletic, 10 Mar. 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 13 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

instead of

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

More from Merriam-Webster on instead of

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