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

California lawmakers are resisting outright moratoriums and bans that the public is calling for and instead are pursuing greater regulation. — Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 21 Sep. 2026

The animal was far from sprinting, instead taking a relaxed stroll at a speed surprisingly comparable to a human walking briskly to catch a bus. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 21 Sep. 2026

The assessment instead rests on the evidence assembled for the audit and the methodology used to evaluate it. — Malana Vantyler, Miami Herald, 21 Sep. 2026

Venture into unknown territory by diving head-first into bold prints, or try new silhouettes in familiar colors instead—they’ll both go with your perfect white tee. — Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 21 Sep. 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