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

Opt for outdoor throw pillows and blankets instead. —Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 1 May 2026

What Margo does instead is fascinating. —Brian Moylan, Vulture, 1 May 2026

More Americans are heading into retirement without a pension, and are instead leaning on savings accounts and investment portfolios that have become increasingly subject to market swings and the slow erosion of inflation. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 May 2026

Chances are, mom doesn’t need another reusable water bottle, so why not elevate her hydration routine with this borosilicate glass pitcher instead? —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 1 May 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