instead of / rather than
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instead of / rather than
Expresses that something happens as a substitute for or alternative to something else. “Anstatt” is usually followed by an infinitive clause with “zu” or a subordinate clause with “dass”.
Anstatt zu lernen, sieht er den ganzen Abend fern.
Instead of studying, he watches television all evening.
instead of
Used as a preposition with the genitive, meaning “in place of”.
Anstatt eines Briefes schickte sie eine kurze Nachricht.
Instead of a letter, she sent a short message.
“Anstatt” is very often followed by “zu” and an infinitive. This infinitive clause usually refers to the same person performing the action as the main clause.
Anstatt die Wohnung aufzuräumen, spielt er am Computer.
Instead of tidying up the apartment, he plays on the computer.
After “anstatt dass”, a complete subordinate clause follows, with a conjugated verb at the end. This form is especially useful when the subordinate clause has its own subject.
Anstatt dass die Kinder helfen, muss die Mutter alles allein machen.
Instead of the children helping, the mother has to do everything alone.
An “anstatt” infinitive clause or an “anstatt dass” subordinate clause placed at the beginning is separated from the main clause by a comma.
Anstatt den Bus zu nehmen, ging sie zu Fuß nach Hause.
Instead of taking the bus, she walked home.
