Collocations for "instead"
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word "instead" in context.
WordReference English Collocations © 2025
instead
ⓘMost examples are given in US English. We have labeled exceptions as UK.adv
- would rather [go, stop, decide] instead (of)
- instead of [going] I would rather
- focus instead on
- instead of [focussing on, complaining about]
- instead you [should, can, might]
- (would) prefer to have [steak, an apple] instead (of)
- instead of [steak], how about [fish]?
- (I ordered pasta) but was served steak instead
'instead' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):