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Definitions from the Web

Instead of

Definition:

Preposition and adverb. Used to indicate a choice or alternative in place of something or someone.

Senses:

1. Preposition:

In place of; as an alternative or substitute for.

Example sentences:

• I had tea instead of coffee for breakfast.
• Instead of going to the party, she decided to stay home and watch a movie.

2. Adverb:

As an alternative; as a different option or choice.

Example sentences:

• He chose to cycle instead of taking the bus.
• The team decided to shoot from a distance instead of going for a close-range shot.

Usages:

Popular:

Instead of is commonly used to express a decision or preference for an alternative option.

Example sentence:

• She bought a new dress instead of repairing the old one.

Local:

In local usage, instead of can be used to convey a sense of surprise or deviation from the expected.

Example sentence:

• Instead of turning left, he turned right and got lost.

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