instead

adverb

in·​stead in-ˈsted How to pronounce instead (audio)
Synonyms of instead
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

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Examples of instead in a Sentence

I was offered a ride, but I chose to walk instead.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Remember not to enter passwords or credit card numbers into AI chats and instead only use secure platforms. — Marty Swant, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026 For a local dessert treat, diners can opt instead for a cup of Gunther’s vanilla or lemon custard ice cream. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 26 Oct. 2026 The statement doesn’t amount to an endorsement, a spokesperson for Caruso said, but instead simply informs people for whom Caruso planned to vote. — Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026 According to local lore, however, Ware’s headless body is not in that grave but instead in her original grave, now located at the bottom of Silver Lake. — Marcus Librizzi, The Conversation, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for instead

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of instead was in 1667

Phrases Containing instead

Rhymes for instead

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Browse Nearby Words

instaurator
instead
instead of
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Cite this Entry

“Instead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instead. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

instead

adverb
in·​stead in-ˈsted How to pronounce instead (audio)
: as a substitute
was going to write but called instead
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