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.
If the Parliamentarian determines a provision in a bill violates the Byrd Rule, the provision must be removed from the bill unless the Senators vote to waive the rule—that requires 60 votes, instead of the lower 51 vote majority allowed for reconciliation. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025 The Illinois show has been moved to Tinley Park’s Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre, instead of Chicago’s Wrigley Field, on Aug. 26. Chris Willman, Variety, 14 June 2025 Critics wished farmers were part of the equation to solicit their feedback on USDA’s proposals instead of only asking state commissioners to decide quickly on the way to distribute disaster aid. Lisa Hagen, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2025 Maybe the rhythm of the day will feel more like normal on Saturday, when the field goes out in pairs instead of threesomes. Will Graves, Chicago Tribune, 14 June 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 17 Jun. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!