Instead

/ɪnˈstɛd/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

As a substitute or alternative.

She didn't go to the party; instead, she stayed home to read a book.

In place of or rather than.

He decided to take the bus instead of driving.

Used to indicate a different choice or option.

Instead of chocolate, I would prefer vanilla ice cream.

In contrast to something previously mentioned.

The meeting was canceled; instead, they arranged a call.

In lieu of; not something but something else.

We should focus on quality work instead of quantity.

Middle English: from the phrase 'in stede of', meaning 'in place of'.

instead of:

As a substitute for; in place of.

instead that:

Used to indicate an alternative action or scenario.

No way!

I thought he was coming, but instead, he canceled.

Switch it up

You don't want to eat the same thing every day; instead, switch it up.