instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted 

1

: as a substitute or equivalent

was going to write but called instead

2

: as an alternative to something expressed or implied : rather

longed instead for a quiet country life

Synonyms

• first
• rather

Examples of instead in a Sentence

I was offered a ride, but I chose to walk instead.

Recent Examples on the Web

Across the world, Burmese people living overseas have echoed that concern, instead imploring those who wish to help to donate to grassroots organizations. —Chad De Guzman, Time, 3 Apr. 2025

Patrick has instead emphasized the years of acting classes he's taken to develop his craft in an interview with PEOPLE. —Julia Moore, People.com, 2 Apr. 2025

For example, if a recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of butter, use 2 tablespoons of ghee instead. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025

Most cheaper cars, even for American brands like Ford, are not made in the United States and are instead assembled in countries with cheaper labor, like Mexico. —Ramishah Maruf, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing instead

• instead of

Rhymes for instead

• abed
• ahead
• beachhead
• bedspread
• bedstead
• behead
• blackhead
• blockhead
• bloodshed
• bowhead
• breastfed
• bridgehead

Kids Definition

instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted 

: as a substitute

was going to write but called instead