Supersede Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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supersede
su-per-sede
Definition
to replace
To take the place of (a person or thing previously in authority or use); supplant.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| supersede |
Used when something takes the place of something else because it is considered superior or more modern.
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| replace |
A general term used when one thing is used instead of another.
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| supplant |
Implies replacing something, often through force or strategy, and can have a negative connotation.
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| override |
Often used in the context of authority, to describe when someone uses their power to reject or cancel a decision. Can have a negative implication depending on the context.
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Examples of usage
- It was superseded by a new model.
- The old rules have been superseded by new ones.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “supersede”
Supersede is a 3-syllable verb (su-per-sede). It is pronounced /ˌsupɝˈsid/ in American English and /sˈuːpəsˌiːd/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 3 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #14,128 among the most common English words.
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“supersede” in legal context
- In legal documents, one contract may supersede another, meaning the new one takes precedence over the old.
- Courts often refer to new laws that supersede older laws, demonstrating how updates in legislation can change the rules.
- In estate planning, a new will can supersede previous ones, reflecting more current wishes of the person.
“supersede” in technology
- Software updates often supersede older versions to introduce new features and fix bugs.
- In the tech world, newer devices typically supersede older models, providing better performance and capabilities.
- When designing systems, newer protocols can supersede outdated ones, ensuring more efficient communication.
“supersede” in literature
- In storytelling, a new storyline or character can supersede previous ones, changing the direction of the plot.
- In the world of publishing, a new edition of a book often supersedes earlier ones, reflecting updated content.
- Authors may revise their works, creating new narratives that supersede their original intentions.
“supersede” in everyday usage
- In daily life, new trends can supersede older ones, like fashion styles that come and go.
- A new law or rule may supersede an older one, making it invalid or obsolete.
- Think of how a new favorite activity might supersede an old hobby in someone’s life, showing the changes we embrace.
Origin of 'supersede'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'supersedere,' meaning 'to sit above,' suggesting a position of dominance.
- It was first used in English in the early 15th century, indicating a shift in meaning from its roots.
- The prefix 'super-' commonly indicates something that is superior or greater.
The word 'supersede' originated from the Latin word 'supersedere', which means 'to sit above, abstain from', formed from 'super-' (above) and 'sedere' (to sit). The word was first recorded in English in the 15th century.