Dictionary
English - Chinese

Instead

ɪnˈstɛd
Extremely common
700 - 800
700 - 800
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

而不是, 替代, 而非

Instead meanings in Chinese

而不是

Example:
I would like tea instead of coffee.
我想要茶,而不是咖啡。
She chose to study biology instead of chemistry.
她选择学习生物,而不是化学。
Usage: informalContext: Used when presenting an alternative choice or preference.
Note: This is the most common usage of 'instead', indicating a substitution or alternative.

替代

Example:
Use olive oil instead of butter for cooking.
做饭时用橄榄油替代黄油。
You can use this app instead of the old one.
你可以用这个应用替代旧的那个。
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used in contexts where one item or option is being recommended as a replacement for another.
Note: This meaning emphasizes the act of replacing one thing with another.

而非

Example:
He decided to take the train instead of flying.
他决定乘火车,而非飞行。
We should focus on solving the problem instead of blaming each other.
我们应该专注于解决问题,而非互相指责。
Usage: formalContext: Often used in more formal discussions or writings, especially when contrasting ideas.
Note: This usage can be considered more literary or formal, often seen in essays or reports.

Instead's synonyms

rather

Used to indicate a preference or choice between two options.
Example: I would rather stay home than go out tonight.
Note: While 'instead' implies a substitution or alternative, 'rather' conveys a preference or choice.

alternatively

Introduces another possibility or choice in place of the original one.
Example: You can take the bus, or alternatively, you could walk to the station.
Note: Similar to 'instead,' 'alternatively' suggests a different option but with a focus on presenting an alternative choice.

Instead expressions, common phrases

in place of

To use or have something instead of something else.
Example: I'll have tea in place of coffee this morning.
Note: This phrase specifically refers to substituting one thing for another.

as an alternative

To suggest another option or choice instead of the original one.
Example: You can use a phone as an alternative if your computer is not working.
Note: This phrase emphasizes offering another choice or option.

rather than

Indicates a preference for one option over another.
Example: I prefer to walk rather than take the bus.
Note: This phrase highlights a clear preference for one choice over another.

in lieu of

Instead of; in place of.
Example: We decided to have a picnic in the park in lieu of going to a restaurant.
Note: This phrase is more formal and often used in written or formal contexts.

in favor of

To choose or support one option over another.
Example: I chose to stay home in favor of going out with friends.
Note: This phrase implies a decision made in support of one option over another.

on the contrary

Used to introduce a statement that contradicts or disagrees with what has been said.
Example: I didn't forget; on the contrary, I remembered it very well.
Note: This phrase is used to present an opposing viewpoint or fact.

in contrast to

To show how two things are different or opposite to each other.
Example: In contrast to last year, this year's sales have increased significantly.
Note: This phrase is used to highlight differences between two things.

on the other hand

Used to introduce a contrasting or different point of view.
Example: I like summer for its warmth, but on the other hand, I enjoy winter sports.
Note: This phrase introduces an alternative viewpoint or perspective.

Instead everyday (slang) expressions

instead of

Used to indicate a choice between two options, where one is preferred over the other.
Example: I'll have coffee instead of tea.
Note:

on the flip side

Used to introduce an alternative perspective or situation.
Example: I didn't go to the party; on the flip side, I spent time with my family.
Note: Implies a contrasting or different scenario.

on another note

Transitioning to a different topic or discussion.
Example: I didn't finish the book I was reading. On another note, I started a new one.
Note: Shifts the focus to a different subject or point.

contrarily

Introducing a counterpoint or differing opinion.
Example: She didn't agree with the decision; contrarily, she offered an alternative solution.
Note: Suggests a disagreement or opposing viewpoint.

on the flipside

Expressing a reversal of expectations or a contrasting situation.
Example: I expected the event to be boring, but on the flipside, it was actually quite fun.
Note: Highlights a surprising or unexpected outcome.

Instead - Examples

Instead of going to the cinema, let's stay at home and watch a movie.
我们不去电影院,而是在家看电影吧。
I would rather have tea instead of coffee.
我宁愿喝茶,而不是咖啡。
You can use a pencil sharpener instead of a knife.
你可以用铅笔刀,而不是刀子。

Instead grammar

Instead - Adverb (Adverb) / Adverb (Adverb)
Lemma: instead
Conjugations
Adverb (Adverb): instead
Syllables, Separation and Stress
instead Contains 2 syllables: in • stead
Phonetic transcription: in-ˈsted
in stead , in ˈsted (The red syllable is stressed)

Instead - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
instead: 700 - 800 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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