conjunction
but rather, instead
B1
Meaning 'but rather' and 'instead' used to correct or contrast after a negation (usually after nicht or kein). A coordinating conjunction connecting two equal elements. Common pattern: 'nicht A, sondern B.' It doesn’t require a preposition and isn’t a verb or reflexive form.
Examples
Er bestellte nicht den Kaffee, sondern den Tee, weil ihm der Kaffee zu stark war.
He did not order the coffee but rather the tea because the coffee was too strong for him.
Ich trinke keinen Kaffee, sondern Tee.
I don't drink coffee, but rather tea.
Wir sind nicht ins Kino gegangen, sondern sind zu Hause geblieben.
We didn't go to the cinema; instead, we stayed at home.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine crossing out one option and writing another next to it, with 'sondern' between them to show the contrast.
Sounds like 'son-der' — think 'so, not this, but that'.
Notes
A coordinating conjunction used to present an alternative after a negative statement (e.g., 'nicht ... sondern ...'). It contrasts two elements and does not send the verb to the end.