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

• rather

Examples of instead in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Bannon suggested that Trump appoint a MAGA Republican to fill the role instead. —Jade Walker, CNN Money, 12 Aug. 2025

What happens instead is, to reference Fritz’s former moniker, Corndawgian in its playful absurdity. —Jonathan Bernstein, Rolling Stone, 12 Aug. 2025

They instead are legally required to document the specific facts establishing that believe, while also articulating the facts that leave them to believe that an individual inside a vehicle is in the country illegally. —Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 12 Aug. 2025

As employees are expected to return to the office, many decide to leave the company instead. —Alora Bopray, USA Today, 12 Aug. 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