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 of instead

• rather

Examples of instead in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

The irony there is whether the Heat instead might have to make room for Bronny James. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 July 2026

Swift and Kelce did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen, instead opting for Swift's brother Austin Swift as her man of honor and Jason Kelce was the groom's best man. — Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026

However, references to the semiquincentennial were relatively scant throughout the festival, and celebration efforts were instead focused on developing an elaborate firework and drone display. — Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026

By the time the iPhone 18 Pro is revealed, the $200 premium will no longer feel predatory—instead, consumers will regard it as a uniform response across the industry to prevailing market conditions. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026

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