"Instead of" Vs "Rather than"

[f2001290]

What is the difference between "Instead of" and "rather than"?

Any help on this is appreciated.

[isisalaska]

Rather than consists of an adverb and a conjunction and often means "and not,". It presents a preferred option. Example:

I decided to take the GMAT test again rather than quit my dream


"Instead of" presents an option. "As opposed to" indicates a contrary option.