Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

instead

[in-sted] / ɪnˈstɛd /
ADVERB
alternatively
Synonyms
STRONG
rather
WEAK
alternately alternative as a substitute in lieu in place of in preference on behalf of on second thought preferably rather than

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

However in February the city council announced it was the end of the road for the initiative, electing for electric vehicles instead.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

It turns salt from an ingredient into a conversation — ongoing, responsive, a series of small decisions instead of one final correction.

From Salon • Apr. 21, 2026

He didn’t dwell on the product’s profit potential, focusing instead on its value to Apple’s overall ecosystem.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

All throughout, NewsNation deviated away from a focus on local newscasts, instead recruiting media celebrities who’d lost their jobs at other networks: CNN’s Chris Cillizza, Fox News’ Chris Stirewalt, Newsmax’s Sean Spicer.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

Dad had trained him to run coons, but he couldn’t be broke from running rabbits instead, and couldn’t grasp the difference.

From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck