it says instead

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it says instead" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is being replaced or clarified by another statement or phrase. Example: "The original text suggested a different approach, but it says instead that we should focus on the main objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It says instead sales have slid 2.5% since the tax was applied and 1,700 jobs have been lost.

The Guardian

What it says, instead, is that consumers are paying much too low a price for coal-generated electricity, because the price they pay does not take account of the very large external costs associated with generation.

The New York Times

"Editorial oversight for Waterfall Press will be led by Tammy Faxel," is what it says instead.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It said instead that users had incorrectly interpreted its revised terms of service, which it blamed on its "confusing" choice of language.

BBC

It said instead, "We have honored all commitments given".

The New York Times

In the column that should have said "User" or "Customer," it said, instead, "Principal".

The New Yorker

It said instead that disarmament was "an indispensable part" of the peace process.

The New York Times

Ms. Stewart erased most of it so that it said instead: "Peter Bacanovic re imclone" but then ordered her assistant to restore it to its original form.

The New York Times

It said, instead, that it was recommending improvements to the way the markets operate, including an industry-wide code of practice and more information about such loans to be published on price comparison websites.

The Guardian - Money

The day before the summer recess it said instead that no assessment of the Saudi campaign had been made, but added that numerous previous statements were errors rather than an attempt to deceive.

The Guardian

Wales should have as few as 10, it said, instead of the current 22.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it says instead" to clearly indicate a correction, clarification, or alternative to a previous statement. This helps avoid confusion and ensures the reader understands the updated information.

Common error

Avoid using "it says instead" in simple sentences where a direct replacement is more concise. For instance, instead of "It says instead 'go'," use "It says 'go'."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it says instead" functions as a discourse marker. It signals a shift from a previously mentioned idea to a new, often contradictory, piece of information. It introduces a clarification or a replacement of a previous statement, as Ludwig AI pointed out.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it says instead" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a clarification, correction, or alternative to a previous statement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in English writing. While not extremely common, it is frequently found in news and media contexts to present updated information. To enhance clarity in writing, "it says instead" should be used judiciously, particularly to avoid redundancy in simple sentences. Alternatives like "it states alternatively" or "it claims in contrast" can be employed for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it states alternatively

Emphasizes formal statement with a different approach.

it claims in contrast

Highlights the contrasting nature of the information.

it suggests as a substitute

Focuses on the suggestion aspect and its role as a replacement.

the report indicates rather

Specific to reports, showing preference for another detail.

the document specifies differently

Emphasizes a different specification within a document.

it offers an alternative perspective

Highlights the provision of a differing viewpoint.

it provides a revised explanation

Highlights that there is a new explanation provided.

the source clarifies by saying

It refers that is provided a clarifcation.

rather, it communicates

Focuses on the communication aspect and divergence.

conversely, the text asserts

Highlights the text asserting something different.

FAQs

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

Use "it says instead" to introduce a correction, clarification, or alternative to a previous statement. For example, "The initial report was incorrect; "it says instead" that the project is on schedule."

What are some alternatives to "it says instead"?

Alternatives include "it states alternatively", "it claims in contrast", or "it suggests as a substitute" depending on the context.

Is "it says instead" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it says instead" is grammatically correct and commonly used to introduce a clarification or alternative statement.

What's the difference between "it says instead" and "it says, however"?

"It says instead" introduces a direct replacement or correction, while "it says, however" introduces a contrast or additional information without necessarily replacing the original statement.