"instead of waiting" vs "instead of wait"

Question

"instead of waiting" vs "instead of wait"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Instead of wait' is used when referring to a specific action that should be taken instead of waiting, while 'instead of waiting' is used when describing a general preference for an alternative action over waiting.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to express a general preference for doing something else rather than waiting for a particular event or outcome.

Examples:

Instead of waiting for the rain to stop, let's go inside.
Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, just take action now.

Alternatives:

Instead of wait
Instead of sitting and waiting
Instead of remaining in one place waiting
Instead of holding off and waiting
Instead of staying put and waiting

This phrase is used to indicate a specific action that should be done in place of waiting for something.

Examples:

Instead of wait for the bus, I decided to walk home.
Instead of wait for the results, she started working on a new project.

Alternatives:

Instead of waiting
Instead of sitting around and waiting
Instead of staying put and waiting
Instead of remaining in one place and waiting
Instead of holding off and waiting

Answer 1

instead of waiting

This phrase is correct when describing a general preference for an alternative action over waiting.

Answer 2

instead of wait

This phrase is correct when referring to a specific action that should be taken instead of waiting.

"instead of waiting" vs "instead of wait"

instead of waiting

instead of wait

Related Comparisons