Substitutes: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in general contexts where one thing is replaced with another.

• You can use applesauce as substitutes for oil in baking
• The teacher provided substitutes for the absent students' missed assignments

This is used when providing a different option that serves the same purpose, often with the connotation of being a choice among several options.

• We need to find an alternative route to avoid the traffic jam
• He proposed an alternative solution to the problem

Replacement is generally used when one thing directly takes the place of another, and it may imply that the original is no longer available or usable.

• The manager is looking for a replacement for the old printer
• They need a replacement player for the injured team member

This phrase is specifically used in cooking or recipes when replacing one ingredient with another, often due to dietary needs or availability.

• Coconut oil is a popular alternative ingredient for those who can't have dairy
• You can use almond flour as an alternative ingredient in gluten-free recipes

Used generally in sports or other team activities to refer to players who are not in the starting lineup but can replace starters during the game.

• The coach called on the substitutes to warm up before entering the game.
• Injuries to the main players meant that the substitutes had to step up.

Specifically means a player who is prepared to replace another player, often in case of injury or unavailability. It gives a sense of preparedness and support role rather than immediate action.

• We need a strong backup player for the goalkeeper position.
• As a backup player, he knows he has to be ready to play at any moment.

Commonly used to describe someone who temporarily takes over the role of another player or person. This term can apply in sports as well as in other fields like acting or work.

• With our striker out sick, the stand-in did a commendable job.
• During the practice sessions, one of the junior players was a stand-in for the injured midfielder.

Used in formal contexts when a player takes the place of a regular player due to various reasons like injury, transfer, or suspension. It implies a more permanent or longer-term change.

• When the star player was injured, the team brought in a replacement player.
• The replacement player quickly adapted to the team's playing style.

Use 'substitutes' when talking about one thing taking the place of another, often temporarily or in sports. It's also used in cooking and academics.

• In the recipe, applesauce can be used as a substitute for butter.
• The coach made three substitutions during the game.
• The teacher had to use a substitute because she was sick.

Use 'replace' when talking about taking out something that is old, broken, or not needed anymore and putting something new or better in its place.

• He replaced the old battery with a new one.
• The broken window was replaced last week.
• I need to replace my worn-out shoes.

Use 'exchange' when talking about giving something and receiving something else in return. This term is common in discussions about trading goods, currency, or communication.

• They exchanged gifts during the holidays.
• She has plans to do a student exchange program in France.
• We exchanged phone numbers to keep in touch.

Use 'swap' when two people exchange items directly with each other. It’s often used in informal settings and can have a playful or casual tone.

• Can we swap seats? I prefer the aisle.
• They decided to swap books after they finished reading.
• I swapped my sandwich for his apple.