be replaced by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be replaced by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is being substituted for something else. For example: "This outdated computer system needs to be replaced by a more modern one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To be replaced by whom?

The Economist

Should he be replaced by another American?

The New York Times

Montie will be replaced by Moo.

The New York Times

He will be replaced by Alfredo Figaro.

The New York Times

He will be replaced by Manny Ramirez.

The New York Times - Sports

"Politics will eventually be replaced by imagery.

The New York Times

And be replaced by locusts.

The New York Times

He will be replaced by Michael Thorn.

The New York Times

He will be replaced by Livio Proli.

The New York Times

It cannot be replaced by gym class.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Let by and be replaced by.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be replaced by", ensure that the replacement is clearly defined and that the context makes the reason for the replacement evident. For example: "Outdated software should be replaced by a more efficient alternative."

Common error

Avoid using "be replaced by" when you mean to say something is being added in addition to something else, rather than taking its place. For example, don't say "The old textbook will be replaced by new chapters" if the old textbook is still being used. Say "The old textbook will be supplemented by new chapters" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be replaced by" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a subject undergoes a substitution. Ludwig shows examples where it signals a direct exchange, as in "He will be replaced by Zoë Ball".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

19%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be replaced by" is a common and correct passive construction used to indicate substitution. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using "be replaced by", ensure the substitution is clear and fits the context, avoiding confusion with supplementation. Consider alternatives like "be substituted by" or "be superseded by" for nuanced meanings. The frequency across different sources highlights its versatility and general applicability in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be substituted by

Emphasizes the act of substituting one thing for another, often in a more technical or formal context. This alternative emphasizes the action performed.

be superseded by

Suggests that something is outdated or no longer valid, and is being replaced by something newer or better. This alternative implies an improvement.

be supplanted by

Implies a more forceful or complete replacement, often suggesting that the original thing is being completely removed or eliminated. This is a stronger term.

be displaced by

Suggests a physical or metaphorical movement, where one thing is being moved out of its position by another. This emphasizes the change in position.

give way to

Indicates that something is gradually being replaced, often due to changing circumstances or evolving preferences. This is less direct.

be rendered obsolete by

Highlights that something has become outdated or no longer useful due to the emergence of something newer or more advanced. This alternative focuses on obsolescence.

be exchanged for

Focuses on the reciprocal nature of the replacement, highlighting that something is being given in return for something else. This alternative implies a trade.

be overridden by

Indicates that something is being overruled or invalidated by something else, often in a system or process. This alternative implies a higher authority.

make way for

This is an idiom, meaning to allow space or opportunity for something else, often implying a necessary or inevitable change. This alternative carries an idiomatic weight.

step aside for

Suggests a voluntary relinquishing of a position or role, allowing someone or something else to take over. This alternative implies consent.

FAQs

How can I use "be replaced by" in a sentence?

The phrase "be replaced by" indicates a substitution. For example, "The old bridge will "be replaced by" a new, modern structure".

What's a more formal alternative to "be replaced by"?

More formal alternatives include "be superseded by" or "be supplanted by". These suggest a complete and often necessary substitution.

Is it correct to say "become replaced by"?

While "become replaced by" might be understood, it's less common and grammatically awkward. Sticking with ""be replaced by"" is generally clearer and more concise.

What's the difference between "be replaced by" and "be substituted with"?

"Be replaced by" is generally preferred. While "be substituted with" isn't incorrect, it's less common and can sound slightly awkward. "Be replaced by" is more direct and widely accepted.