A2adverb1K

Instead

UK /["/ɪnˈsted/"]/US /["/ɪnˈsted/"]/

Definition

in the place of somebody/something

In simple words: used to say that something is done in place of something else

Examples

  • Lee was ill so I went instead.
  • He didn't reply. Instead, he turned on his heel and left the room.
  • She said nothing, **preferring instead** to save her comments till later.
  • She might have pursued a successful career in business, but she **chose instead** to become a nun.
  • The UN resisted any tougher sanctions, **opting instead** for more time to give talks a chance.
  • While the Conservatives put the emphasis on the economy, Labour **focused instead on** public services.

Usage notes

Use 'instead' to show a choice between two options. It is suitable in both spoken and written English, but may sound too formal in casual conversations if overused.

Grammar pattern

instead + of + noun/-ing

Memory hint

Think of 'in place of'—it’s like swapping something out.

Collocations

  • instead of
  • do instead
  • choose instead
  • use instead
  • say instead

Synonyms

  • rather
  • alternatively
  • in place of
  • as a substitute
  • instead of

Antonyms

  • instead of
  • rather than

Common mistakes

  • Using 'instead' at the beginning of a sentence without context.
  • 'Instead of' followed incorrectly by a verb in its base form.
  • Confusing 'instead' with 'besides'.