as in rather
as a substitute I was offered a ride, but I chose to walk instead

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of instead Hassan’s team instead squeezed a photon’s intensity and demonstrated real-time control, fluctuating between intensity and phase-squeezing by adjusting the silica’s position relative to the beams. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 Oct. 2025 Princess Diana often avoided tights, using tanning oil instead. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 6 Oct. 2025 Rather than completing the first overland crossing in Antarctica, Shackleton instead made headlines for leading every one of his men to safety — a feat that also earned him a telegram of personal congratulations from the United Kingdom’s King George V. Mindy Weisberger, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2025 Often, when Nicholas tried to interview a correction officer, the officer would walk away and bring over his wife or a retired officer to talk instead. Jennifer Gonnerman, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for instead
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instead
rather
Adverb
  • The audience for wax museums is melting away in the digital age, when posing with a static dummy has come to feel rather quaint.
    Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2025
  • The simplicity is intentional so your eye isn't bouncing, but rather gliding through the room.
    Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Instead.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instead. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

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