Instead – English Word Guide

Meaning of “Instead”

The word instead is an adverb used to indicate that one thing is done or used in place of another. It often appears with the preposition of, forming the phrase instead of.

Common Usage

• Instead of + noun/gerund: Used to show replacement.
• Instead at the end of a sentence: Indicates an alternative action.

Example Sentences

1. I stayed home instead of going to the party.
2. She drank tea instead.
3. We took the bus instead of driving.
4. He didn’t apologize. Instead, he walked away.

Tips for Learners

Remember: instead of must be followed by a noun, pronoun, or verb ending in -ing (a gerund). Do not say “instead of to go” — say “instead of going.”