Instead meaning in English

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Definition

instead of (doing something): an alternative to (doing something), rather than (doing something) prepositionadverb
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 adverb
The adverb instead (without of) is used at the end of a sentence:
They needed a banker, but they got a consultant instead.

Examples

  • "Eh... Tell me a little about yourself instead."
  • "Edward : Eh... Actually, could I have mashed potatoes instead?"
  • "On the other hand, he wants to hold the meeting tomorrow instead."
  • "Philip : Instead we're looking for a bear!"
  • "Rather than simply ignore his mundane request that the Casual Dress Day be changed, I have decided, instead, to grant him his wish."
  • "Instead, it's a desperate one."
  • "And, instead of ignoring his banal request, I have decided to agree."
  • "Our deluxe model now includes four seat belts instead of the standard two!"
  • "I had mashed potatoes instead of a steak!"
  • "Maybe Chinese food instead."
  • "(My suggestion would be to use those plastic "ponchos" instead."
  • "Edward : No, I wanted mashed potatoes instead of the steak and fries."
  • "Instead, I intend to ruin the reputation of a good man through a combination of rumors, internet research and wild speculation*."
  • "Please let Bruno know that I'll be back on Friday, instead of Wednesday."
  • "SAY VV OR FF INSTEAD OF TH SOUND - SAY "MUVVER" NOT "MOTHER", "MAUFF" NOT "MOUTH""
  • "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."
  • "Instead, you're going to be taking part in some exciting, challenging, and extremely dangerous missions..."
  • "Philip : Well normally I'd say hell yes, but why don't we just get down to business instead?"

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