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/ɪnˈstɛd/ · in·stead

adverb

In the place of something previously mentioned; as a substitute or alternative. I was going to buy the red shirt, but I chose the blue one instead.
Used to indicate a contrasting action or choice. She could have stayed home, but she went out instead.

noun

A substitute; something that takes the place of another. The new policy is a rather welcome instead for the outdated regulations.

Synonyms

in lieu as a substitute as an alternative alternatively rather instead of in place of insteadwise

Antonyms

originally first as is initially primarily instead of not

Did you know? The word 'instead' originated from the Old English phrase 'in steade', literally meaning 'in place', and its evolution from a noun phrase to a standalone adverb is a classic example of grammatical reanalysis.

Related terms

instead of substitute alternative replacement rather insteadness

Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 14, 2026