instead of and instead of they represent those words existing in our language that are made up of two aspects: sometimes they are similar in sound, sometimes in spelling. However, even knowing this occurrence, we need to be aware of the meaning they have, so that we can use them being sure that they are adequate to the formal standard of language, especially when it comes to the writing.
In this way, we will expand our knowledge a little more with regard to this subject, giving a closer look at the characteristics of each of these expressions. Let's go then?
Instead of and instead of having distinct meanings
Rather than means the opposite of, the inverse of. Let's look at some examples:
Instead of entering, he left.
She cried instead of smiling.
Instead of the white dress, she preferred the black one.
We noticed that in all situations there was the presence of elements that indicated the idea of opposition, contrast, such as: entering x leaving; cry x smile; white x black.
Rather than means “in place of”. Let's see some examples?
Instead of studying Mathematics, he studied Geography.
He preferred to travel by bus instead of plane.
Instead of going to the theater, he preferred to go to the movies.
We note that in all the examples there is not an idea of opposition, but rather an occurrence that manifests itself instead of another, for example: Mathematics is not the opposite of Geography, just as buses are not the opposite of planes, and so against.
Given everything we've learned, here's a tip for you:
The expression “instead of” can be used even when dealing with an opposite idea, as opposed to “instead of”, which has a very restricted sense. So, always prefer the first option (instead of), so you don't run the risk of making mistakes, ok?
By Vânia Duarte
Graduated in Letters
