It is instead

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'It is instead' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not what was expected, or to suggest an alternative. For example, "I was expecting an apology, but it is instead a justification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is instead with its analysis.

The Economist

It is instead called by its call-sign, or the flight number.

WikiHow

It is instead marked as invalid by means of setting its Expired field as "Y".

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

It is instead a recapitalization.

The New York Times

It is, instead, about power.

The New York Times

It is instead creative activity.

The New York Times

It is instead doggedly chronological.

The Guardian - Books

It is instead the paradigm.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is instead Trump's voters.

The New Yorker

It is, instead, a stultifying provision.

Harvard University

It is instead sort of funny.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "It is instead" to clearly signal a shift in focus or to correct a misunderstanding. Ensure that the subsequent statement directly contrasts with what was previously stated or implied.

Common error

Avoid using "It is instead" when simply adding information. This phrase is most effective when replacing or contradicting a previous idea, not just supplementing it. Overusing it can disrupt the flow of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "It is instead" functions as an adverbial phrase that introduces a contrasting or corrective statement. As Ludwig AI explains, this construction indicates that something is not what was expected, presenting an alternative perspective. The examples show how this phrase clarifies meaning by replacing a previous assumption with a different reality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "It is instead" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce a contrasting or corrective statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts. Its primary function is to redirect understanding by presenting an alternative perspective. The phrase is appropriate for neutral registers, making it suitable for both formal and informal writing. To ensure effective usage, remember to use "It is instead" to replace or contradict a previous idea, avoiding its misuse for simple addition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Rather, it is

Emphasizes a preference or correction more directly.

Conversely, it is

Highlights an opposite viewpoint or action.

On the contrary, it is

Strongly negates a previous statement while introducing a contrasting one.

Alternatively, it is

Suggests a different option or possibility.

Instead, it turns out to be

Adds a sense of discovery or unexpectedness.

In its place, it is

Highlights a substitution or replacement.

The reality is, it is

Emphasizes the truth or actual situation.

Actually, it is

Introduces a correction or clarification.

More accurately, it is

Refines a statement to make it more precise.

What it really is, is

Provides a deeper explanation or reinterpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "It is instead" in a sentence?

Use "It is instead" to introduce a contrasting idea or correction to a previous statement. For example: "The problem isn't a lack of resources; "it is instead" a lack of effective management."

What are some alternatives to saying "It is instead"?

Alternatives include phrases like "rather, it is", "conversely, it is", or "on the contrary, it is", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each alternative offers a slightly different emphasis on the contrast being made.

Is it correct to use "It is instead of"?

While grammatically possible, "It is instead of" is less common and often less direct than simply using "It is instead". The latter is generally preferred for clarity and conciseness.

What's the difference between "It is instead" and "Instead, it is"?

"It is instead" typically follows a statement that it contradicts or replaces, while "Instead, it is" can stand alone or begin a sentence to introduce a contrasting point. The placement affects the flow and emphasis of the sentence.