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.
The irony there is whether the Heat instead might have to make room for Bronny James. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 July 2026 If the first day falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is sent on the last business day of the previous month instead. — Sydney Topf, The Washington Examiner, 4 July 2026 Go directly to the official online TV settlement website instead. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026 Now, that excess gets diverted into the Austerlitz basin instead, where it’s held deep underground until the weather clears, then pumped gradually to treatment plants outside the city. — Camille Knight, CNN Money, 4 July 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 9 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on instead

Nglish: Translation of instead for Spanish Speakers

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