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

During a stop in North Carolina, Newsom argued that Democrats need to stop waiting for a 2028 figure to come along and instead focus on the midterm and smaller elections, like Republicans. — Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 5 Oct. 2026

At the time, Jackson was an aspiring 20-year-old artist who was not yet earning an income from his canvases, instead relying on odd jobs and family support amid the throws of the Great Depression. — Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Michael instead cast Jack Nicholson, who would go on to win an Oscar. — ABC News, 5 Oct. 2026

For people whose dry mouth stems from a medical condition or medication, dentists often recommend an alcohol-free rinse with fluoride instead. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 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