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

• first
• rather

Examples of instead in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

In the Americas, only Chile and Colombia do not grant birthright citizenship, relying instead on jus sanguinis or citizenship based on ancestry rather than place of birth. —Justin Gest, Newsweek, 21 Jan. 2025

Thousands of his supporters watched a broadcast of the swearing-in at Capitol One Arena instead. —Bill Barrow, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025

None of TikTok's actions were necessary under the law, which instead only required Google, Apple, and other web hosting services to stop carrying the app. —Maria Curi, Axios, 21 Jan. 2025

Last fall, Roan decided not to extend her tour and instead focused on her physical and mental health. —Mitchell Peters, Billboard, 20 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing instead

• instead of

Kids Definition

instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted 

: as a substitute

was going to write but called instead