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Instead vs instead of

Both 'instead' and 'instead of' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Instead' is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has been said or implied, while 'instead of' is used to indicate a choice or preference. They are not interchangeable, as 'instead of' is used before a noun or pronoun, while 'instead' can stand alone.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 672 views

Instead

The word 'instead' is correct and commonly used in English.

It is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has been said or implied. 'Instead' can stand alone in a sentence.

Examples:

  • I wanted to go for a run, but instead, I decided to stay home.
  • She chose to read a book instead of watching TV.
  • Instead they were lostin transit and all but forgotten.
  • Instead, this is a national concern.
  • Instead, he had something more that left him as he started to bleed.
  • Instead, our focus lies on using existing instruments and financial resources considerably more efficiently.
  • Instead, they publicized your side.
  • Instead, there was a litany of astonishing optimism.
  • Instead, they should focus public attention on valid arguments.
  • Instead it pretends to tackle youth smoking.
  • Instead, regular insulin administered intravenously is recommended in such cases.
  • Instead, you sat there quietly.
  • Instead I sent him to Edinburgh with first-class ticket.
  • Instead, each proposal faced its own opposition.
  • Instead, you question my integrity.
  • Instead, revenue is the amount of commission.
  • Instead they advocate nations with closed borders.
  • Instead she was noticing something altogether more alarming.
  • Instead, people treat this behaviour as disobedience.
  • Instead, there are Europe's open evaluations.
  • Instead, Indonesian export statistics were used to establish export prices.
  • Instead, Ben is The Thing all the time.

Alternatives:

  • as an alternative
  • in place of
  • rather than
  • in lieu of
  • substitute

instead of

The phrase 'instead of' is correct and commonly used in English.

'Instead of' is used to indicate a choice or preference. It is followed by a noun or pronoun.

Examples:

  • I'll have tea instead of coffee.
  • He decided to walk instead of taking the bus.
  • Thosewhowantmusic instead of noise. Happinessratherthanenjoyment.
  • Someday, instead of managing brain degeneration with medication...
  • Start looking around, instead of saying nonsense.
  • She ran instead of getting help.
  • Aneurysm must've leaked instead of burst.
  • You insulted him instead of apologizing.
  • Chamber instead of a full orchestra.
  • Find yourself a girlfriend instead of painting these awful things.
  • Not if someone's there instead of him.
  • Khanh, instead of blubbering... reason with her.
  • It became about the game instead of me.
  • Arvid, try doing something surprising instead of standing there lying to me.
  • He'd better given me a hand instead of crying.
  • So instead of hoping an emergency I prefer to have reserves.
  • Maybe if I'd met you instead of her...
  • They'll meet twice instead of three times.
  • But instead of becoming a pilot they put me in the kitchen.
  • I defied him, instead of deifying him.
  • Maybe if you paid attention instead of reading.
  • Get me a Manhattan Special instead of the Coke.

Alternatives:

  • in place of
  • as a substitute for
  • as an alternative to
  • rather than
  • in lieu of

Related Comparisons

consists basically of vs consists of basically instead of vs instead of you to instead of vs instead of you instead of vs Rather of Rather than of vs Rather that of consist of vs consists of

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