replace it for

USAGE SUMMARY

"replace it for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask someone to replace an item with something else. For example, "Please replace it for a new one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

May I replace it for you, or buy something in its stead?" That should do the trick.

The New York Times

They seem to replace it, for a while.

The New York Times

Another option is www.pdasmart.com, which will either supply you with a battery or replace it for you.

The New York Times

David DiBenedetto, the editor in chief, recalled that when the magazine's color printer broke, the staff did not have the money to replace it for two months.

The New York Times

It cost me nothing to acquire the bike (I have nice friends) and I can replace it for a couple of hundred dollars if it's stolen or destroyed in an accident.

The New York Times

One said he had received a mouldy Filet-O-Fish but staff had told him the specks had been caused by the steamer - though they did replace it for him.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Fibre flax is still used for sails, although cotton has replaced it for better quality canvas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In recent years, however, the metric system has gradually replaced it for dispensing medicines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now "toned" male nudity has replaced it for shock value in the theater.

The New York Times

Although plastics have generally replaced it for these uses, pearwood is still used for bowls and other kinds of wooden tableware and in making veneers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At one time, its largest single use was as automotive antifreeze; methanol and ethylene glycol have replaced it for this purpose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing when using this phrase. While generally acceptable, alternatives like "substitute it with" may be more appropriate in formal contexts.

Common error

A common mistake is to confuse what is being replaced with what is doing the replacing. Make sure the sentence clearly indicates the original item and its replacement. Instead of saying "Replace the old model for the new features", which is ambiguous, clarify with "Replace the old model with the new model, because of the new features."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "replace it for" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of substituting something with something else. Ludwig examples confirm its use in diverse contexts, such as replacing a broken item or adopting a new strategy.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "replace it for" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrasal verb that indicates the act of substituting one thing with another. Ludwig confirms that it's widely used in contexts ranging from news and media to scientific and technical discussions. While generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "substitute it with" in professional settings. Remember to clearly indicate both the original item and its replacement to avoid ambiguity. Overall, "replace it for" is a versatile and useful phrase in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substitute it for

Replaces the verb "replace" with "substitute", indicating a similar action of using something in place of another.

exchange it for

Uses "exchange" to convey the idea of swapping one item for another, highlighting a mutual giving and receiving.

swap it for

Employs "swap" to suggest a more informal exchange or trade.

trade it for

Uses "trade" to imply a negotiated exchange, often involving goods or services.

use it instead of

Rephrases to focus on using something as an alternative, rather than a direct replacement.

supplant it with

Suggests a more forceful or complete replacement, where the new item takes over entirely.

supersede it with

Implies that something newer or better has taken the place of the original.

take its place with

Focuses on the action of something assuming the position or role of something else.

fill its role with

Highlights the filling of a specific function or purpose that the original item served.

put it in place of

Describes a physical substitution, focusing on the act of positioning something in lieu of another.

FAQs

What does "replace it for" mean?

The phrase "replace it for" means to substitute one thing with another, often to improve, repair, or correct something. For instance, you might "replace a broken window for a new one".

Is "replace it for" grammatically correct?

Yes, "replace it for" is grammatically correct and understandable. However, alternatives like "replace it with" or "substitute it for" might sound more natural to some speakers depending on context.

What are some alternatives to "replace it for"?

You can use alternatives such as "exchange it for", "substitute it for", or "supplant it with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "replace it for" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "The company decided to "replace it for" a more efficient model." Always ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being replaced.