anstatt

instead of

preposition an-SHTAT Rare

Usage Note

Anstatt functions as both a preposition (+ genitive) and a subordinating conjunction (+ zu + infinitive). It is interchangeable with statt in most contexts; anstatt is slightly more emphatic and common in written German. Never takes the accusative.

Examples

"Anstatt eines langen Briefes schickte sie eine kurze Nachricht."

Natural Translation

Instead of a long letter, she sent a short message.

Literal Translation

Instead of a long letter sent she a short message.

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