instead speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instead speaking" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used when contrasting two actions or choices, but it should be rephrased for clarity. Example: "He decided to write a letter instead of speaking directly to her."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Instead, speaking before the European Parliament on July 2nd, he committed a terrible gaffe.

The Economist

So they hit the road instead, speaking at high schools across Virginia and West Virginia.

The New York Times

In a telephone interview, Dr. Küng declined to comment directly on the meeting, instead speaking generally about the coming visit.

The New York Times

The symbolism of the event outweighed the substance, as Francis did not delve into any specifics, instead speaking broadly of collaboration and good will.

The New York Times

Instead, speaking at a Virginia military base, he said Mr. Awlaki "was killed" in what he said was "a tribute to our intelligence community".

The New York Times

Haddin, 37, was absent for most of Australia's practice session at Lord's, instead speaking to Lehmann and the team psychologist, Michael Lloyd, on the pavilion balcony.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"You should instead speak to us with respect.

The New York Times

Semyon instead speaks of the "support of fellow Jews".

The New York Times - Magazine

And this president, instead, speaks loudly and carries a tiny stick.

The New York Times

In conversation, she avoids the term "jury duty" and instead speaks of "jury service".

The New Yorker

Instead speak naturally and informally, as if to a friend a few feet away.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When intending to show contrast between two actions where one is speaking, prefer using "instead of speaking" or "rather than speaking". This ensures grammatical correctness and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "instead speaking" in formal writing. While it might be understood, it deviates from standard English grammar and can diminish the credibility of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instead speaking" functions as a conjunction phrase that attempts to introduce a contrast between two actions, one of which is the act of speaking. Ludwig AI indicates this phrasing is not correct in standard written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "instead speaking" appears with some frequency, particularly in News & Media, it's considered grammatically incorrect. According to Ludwig AI, the correct phrasing is "instead of speaking" or "rather than speaking". Therefore, it's best to use these alternatives to ensure clarity and grammatical accuracy in your writing. The examples in Ludwig illustrate the attempt to contrast the action of speaking with another action or state, but using correct grammar is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than speaking

Emphasizes preference; more grammatically sound.

instead of speaking

More common and grammatically correct alternative.

in lieu of speaking

More formal substitution.

as opposed to speaking

Highlights a direct contrast between actions.

conversely, speaking

Introduces an opposite viewpoint, then the action of speaking.

on the other hand, speaking

Signals a contrasting perspective.

by speaking in contrast

Focuses on the action of speaking itself as the contrasting element.

alternatively, speaking

Presents a different option involving speaking.

instead by speaking

Emphasizes the means of speaking as the alternative action.

speaking as an alternative

Highlights speaking as the substitute action.

FAQs

What's the correct way to use "instead" when talking about speaking?

The correct way is to use "instead of speaking" or "rather than speaking". "Instead" should be followed by a preposition when it precedes a verb in the -ing form.

Is "instead speaking" grammatically correct?

No, "instead speaking" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. The correct phrasing is "instead of speaking".

What can I say "instead of speaking"?

You can use alternatives like "rather than speaking", "in lieu of speaking", or "conversely, speaking" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "instead speaking" or "instead of speaking"?

"Instead of speaking" is the grammatically correct option. "Instead speaking" is incorrect.