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

Ahead, the most common travel wardrobe mistakes that date your outfits—and exactly what to pack instead for a suitcase that feels effortless, cohesive, and timeless. —Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 18 Apr. 2026

But this isn’t stuffy butler service; instead, expect personable servers and wait staff who still anticipate your every needs, but who do it with a charming touch. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Apr. 2026

The one nation that could restrain his worst impulses — us — enables them instead. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2026

Netflix, for its part, didn't spend too much time on M&A during the earnings call, instead focusing on its more familiar talking points like user engagement, a growing advertising business, and spending on content that holds onto members (and helps justify price hikes). —Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 17 Apr. 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