Substitute: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when someone or something takes the place of another, often temporarily. It's often used in sports, food recipes, and roles.

• The coach decided to substitute the injured player.
• You can substitute honey for sugar in this recipe.

Use this when one thing takes over the function or position of another, often permanently. It implies a change from something old or broken to something new.

• We need to replace the old computer with a new one.
• She replaced her broken phone with a new model.

This is used when you give something and receive something else in return. It can refer to goods, services, or ideas.

• They exchanged phone numbers after the meeting.
• He went to the store to exchange the shirt for a different size.

This is used when two things or people exchange places or roles, often informally. It's commonly used in casual situations.

• They decided to swap seats during the flight.
• Let's swap stories over dinner.

When you need someone or something to take the place of another person or thing temporarily or in specific situations.

• He was a substitute teacher for the day.
• You can use applesauce as a substitute for oil in baking.

When a new person or thing takes the place of another permanently, often used in employment or technology replacement scenarios.

• We need a replacement for the broken window.
• She found a replacement for her old phone.

When a person temporarily takes the place of someone else, often used in performing arts or informal situations.

• The actor couldn't attend, so they used a stand-in for the rehearsal.
• She's just a stand-in until we find a permanent nanny.

When referring to a person or thing that supports or is ready to take over if the original option fails, often used in technology and security contexts.

• Make sure you have a backup of all your important files.
• We have a backup plan in case it rains.