instead

American  

[in-sted] / ɪnˈstɛd /

adverb

1. as a substitute or replacement; in the place or stead of someone or something.

   We ordered tea but were served coffee instead.

2. in preference; as a preferred or accepted alternative.

   The city has its pleasures, but she wished instead for the quiet of country life.

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idioms

1. instead of, in place of; in lieu of.

   You can use milk instead of cream in this recipe.

instead British  

/ ɪnˈstɛd /

adverb

1. as a replacement, substitute, or alternative

2. (preposition) in place of or as an alternative to

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Etymology

Origin of instead

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English; originally phrase in stead “in place”

Example Sentences

If workers get the green light for a couple of extra days working from home, in all likelihood it would be coming from their immediate managers instead of the company’s top leaders.

From MarketWatch

“I told him, if you wanted our help, you should have asked earlier instead of going to the newspapers now,” Merz said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Many people with these schedules do not consider themselves shift workers and instead see their routine as simply starting the day earlier than usual.

From Science Daily

The festival hopes to encourage artists and fans to turn to comedy, theater, creativity and community instead of despair.

From Los Angeles Times

“But also, I just wish people would calm down ... try to talk to us, try to engage with us and help de-escalate the situation, instead of making it worse.”

From Los Angeles Times