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.
To give this a seasonal spin, omit the coffee liqueur and use matcha tea instead of espresso or cold brew. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 July 2025 Most impressive was Giovanna Hoffmann, a surprise starter instead of regular centre-forward Lea Schuller. Michael Cox, New York Times, 20 July 2025 The magic is in the peel-and-stick carbon fiber sheets for the hitting surface, which give you fresh grit for $50 instead of dropping another $200 and sending a months-old plastic paddle to the landfill. Martin Cizmar, Wired News, 20 July 2025 For example, carry grocery bags on your forearms instead of gripping them with your fingers. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 20 July 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 29 Jul. 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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