Definition
instead of (doing something): an alternative to (doing something), rather than (doing something)
Instead of precedes a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing):
I would prefer tea instead of coffee.
Instead of asking questions, you should just start working.
instead (end of sentence): rather than the other thing, in place of the other thing
The adverb instead (without of) is used at the end of a sentence:
They needed a banker, but they got a consultant instead.
- "SAY VV OR FF INSTEAD OF TH SOUND - SAY "MUVVER" NOT "MOTHER", "MAUFF" NOT "MOUTH""
- "Edward : Eh... Actually, could I have mashed potatoes instead?"
- "I thought that returning to the continent would bring me closer to my roots, instead it has shown me the terrifying consequences of disrupting the European Union."
- "Edward : No, I wanted mashed potatoes instead of the steak and fries."
- "Philip : Well normally I'd say hell yes, but why don't we just get down to business instead?"
- "Philip : Instead we're looking for a bear!"
- "Instead, it's a desperate one."
- "I had mashed potatoes instead of a steak!"
- "Instead, you're going to be taking part in some exciting, challenging, and extremely dangerous missions..."
- "Instead, I intend to ruin the reputation of a good man through a combination of rumors, internet research and wild speculation*."
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