To replace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To replace" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when indicating the action of substituting one thing for another. Example: "I need to replace the old batteries in the remote." Alternative expressions include "to substitute" and "to exchange."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To replace Michael Steele?

The New Yorker

To replace Dominique Strauss-Kahn?

The New Yorker

To replace Mayor Daley?

The New Yorker

"To replace Jamie Carragher is unbelievable.

BBC

If ready to replace, locate replacement BIB.

WikiHow

The plan is to replace….

The New Yorker

He'll be tough to replace".

The New York Times

There's nothing to replace experience.

The New York Times

He offered to replace them.

The New York Times

We have to replace it.

The New Yorker

Ready to replace you.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "To replace", ensure clarity about what is being replaced and what it is being replaced with. This avoids ambiguity and makes the sentence more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "To replace" without clearly stating what the original item is being replaced with. For example, instead of saying "I need to replace it", specify "I need to replace the old tire with a new one".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "To replace" is as an infinitive, often used to express purpose or intention. Ludwig shows its usage in various contexts, such as indicating the substitution of items or personnel.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "To replace" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive that communicates the act of substituting one thing for another. Ludwig's analysis indicates its common usage in news and media, as well as wiki contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various situations. While simple, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is being replaced. Consider alternatives like "to substitute" or "to supplant" for nuanced meanings. The phrase’s overall versatility makes it a valuable component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To substitute

This alternative highlights the act of exchanging one thing for another, often implying a direct swap.

To supersede

This alternative implies that something newer or more effective is taking the place of something older, rendering it obsolete.

To supplant

This alternative suggests replacing something, often in a forceful or strategic manner, implying that the new thing is taking over.

To exchange for

Focuses on the action of trading or swapping something for another.

To take over from

Indicates assuming responsibility or control from someone else.

To act as a substitute

This phrase indicates a temporary or designated replacement.

To stand in for

This is commonly used to mean representing or substituting for someone or something else, often temporarily.

To fill in for

This suggests temporarily taking over someone else's role or position.

To swap out

Emphasizes a quick and easy exchange, often used in technical contexts.

To displace

This alternative suggests removing something from its position to make room for something else.

FAQs

How can I use "To replace" in a sentence?

You can use "To replace" to indicate substituting something. For example, "The plan is "to replace" the old computers with new ones".

What is a synonym for "To replace"?

A synonym for "To replace" is "to substitute", which also means to put someone or something in the place of another.

Is it correct to say 'replacing to' instead of "To replace"?

No, it is not correct. The correct infinitive form is "To replace". 'Replacing to' is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "To replace" and "To restore"?

"To replace" means to substitute something with something else, while "to restore" means to bring something back to its original condition. For example, you might "replace" a broken window, but "restore" an old painting.