instead of through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instead of through" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when comparing two options and expressing preference for one over the other. For example: "I prefer to take the shortcut instead of going through the long way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Man will be able to realise his personality through joy instead of through suffering.

The Guardian - Opinion

The tunnels would give water managers the option of diverting flow around, instead of through, the delta.

Los Angeles Times

Try permanently setting the PATH environment variable for the system instead of through the command line.

Yale University

This can successfully be done by induction surface hardening instead of through hardening.

Surface and Coatings Technology

We got to know each other in real life instead of through words on a screen.

The New York Times

Though maybe now it was moving out of instead of through him.

The New Yorker

The restaurant can be entered directly from Crosby Street instead of through the hotel.

The New York Times - Food

Natural gas can be transported from offshore deposits through the ocean, instead of through neighborhoods.

The New York Times

The Lemon Mate, a juice extractor, poured juice down my arm instead of through its spout.

The New York Times

FAGLIANO: It just comes through waves instead of through a wire.

The New York Times

These two tools may also be run individually instead of through reproject_aspect, allowing for slightly more flexibility.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instead of through" to clearly present an alternative method, pathway, or perspective, ensuring clarity in comparative statements. For example, 'Consider resolving conflicts through mediation instead of through litigation.'

Common error

Avoid stringing together multiple "instead of through" phrases in a single sentence, as this can lead to convoluted and difficult-to-read prose. Break down the sentence or rephrase for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instead of through" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces an alternative or replacement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically sound way to express preference or substitution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instead of through" is a versatile and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to express alternatives or replacements. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across a broad spectrum of contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic writing, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse applications. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by avoiding overuse in complex sentences and carefully considering context for subtle differences from similar phrases like "rather than through". The high frequency and authoritative sources utilizing the phrase confirm its established place in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than through

A more formal alternative, placing emphasis on the preference.

in lieu of through

Indicates a substitution or replacement with a slightly more formal tone.

as opposed to through

Highlights a contrast or opposition between two options.

in place of through

Emphasizes the act of replacing one thing with another.

alternatively to through

Suggests an alternative route or method.

as a substitute for through

Clearly indicates a replacement, often used in more formal contexts.

by way of replacement for through

A verbose way of indicating something takes the place of something else.

using... instead of through

Focuses on the action of using one thing in place of another.

via... rather than through

Specifies the means or channel used in place of the original one.

utilizing... instead of through

Highlights the act of using something as a replacement, often in technical contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "instead of through" in a sentence?

Use "instead of through" to show an alternative or replacement. For example, "They decided to travel by train "instead of through" flying due to environmental concerns."

What are some alternatives to "instead of through"?

You can use phrases like "rather than through", "in lieu of through", or "as opposed to through" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "instead of through" or "rather than through"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "Rather than through" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but the choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Can "instead of through" be used to compare abstract concepts?

Yes, ""instead of through"" is suitable for comparing abstract ideas or processes. For example, "Achieving success through collaboration "instead of through" individual effort can lead to more sustainable results."