instead

adverb

In the place of something (usually mentioned earlier); as a substitute or alternative.

Roots

Synonyms & related words for instead

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Words related to instead

Explore words related to instead — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include rather, alternatively, lieu, preferring, alternately, whereas, while, preferably. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Where does instead come from?

The word instead breaks down into one root of Old English origin: the root -stead, from Old English stede (“place”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.