instead it is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instead it is" is a correct and usable English phrase in written English.
It is used when you want to contrast one idea or opinion with another. For example: "I was expecting to get an A in my math test, but instead it is a B."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Instead, it is charming.

The New York Times - Food

Instead it is buying Treasuries.

The Economist

Instead, it is exactly opposite.

The New York Times

Instead, it is quite gripping.

The Economist

Instead it is merely pointless.

The Guardian

"Instead, it is about people.

Independent

Instead, it is environmentalism.

The New York Times

Instead, it is up to us.

The Economist

Instead, it is increasing the taxes".

The New York Times

Instead, it is calmly, ingratiatingly misleading.

The New Yorker

Instead, it is about the policy climate.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instead it is" to introduce a direct contrast or correction to a previously stated idea. This phrase works best when you want to clearly signal that what follows is an alternative to what was expected or previously mentioned.

Common error

Avoid using "instead it is" in very simple sentences where a direct contrast can be expressed more concisely with just "instead". For example, prefer "Instead, try this approach" over "Instead it is, try this approach."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "instead it is" is to serve as a transitional phrase introducing a contrast or alternative to a preceding statement. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in negating expectations or correcting assumptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instead it is" is a commonly used transitional phrase that introduces a contrast or alternative to a preceding statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, including News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure it clearly signals a shift in perspective or a correction of a previous assumption. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse in simple sentences where a more direct contrast with just "instead" would suffice. For alternative expressions, consider options like "conversely it is" or "rather it is" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conversely, it's

This alternative directly contrasts with the previous statement, maintaining a similar level of formality.

rather, it's

This version emphasizes a preference or correction, shifting the focus slightly.

on the contrary, it is

This phrase adds a stronger sense of opposition or rebuttal.

in contrast, it is

This alternative highlights a clear difference between two things.

by contrast, it is

Functions nearly identically to "in contrast, it is" but with a slightly different emphasis.

as an alternative, it's

This explicitly presents the following statement as another option.

the reality is, it's

This phrase is often used to introduce a more factual or grounded perspective.

the truth is, it's

This alternative conveys a tone of revealing what's genuinely the case.

actually, it is

Offers a more direct and immediate correction or clarification.

however, it is

Introduces a contrasting point, but can be less direct than "instead it is".

FAQs

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

Use "instead it is" to introduce an alternative or contrasting fact or situation. For example, "I thought it would rain, but "instead it is" sunny."

What phrases are similar to "instead it is"?

Similar phrases include "conversely it is", "rather it is", or "on the contrary it is", which all serve to introduce a contrasting point.

Is there a difference between using "instead" and "instead it is"?

While "instead" can stand alone to introduce a contrast, "instead it is" provides slightly more emphasis and can be useful when the contrast is less obvious or requires further clarification. "Instead" is more concise and suitable for simpler contrasts.

When is it better to use "however" instead of "instead it is"?

Use "however" when introducing a contrast that doesn't necessarily negate the previous statement but adds a different perspective or limitation. "Instead it is" is better when you want to replace the previous statement with something different.