to replace

USAGE SUMMARY

"to replace" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used when exchanging something for something else, or taking the place of something. For example: I need to replace my old laptop with a new one.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If ready to replace, locate replacement BIB.

WikiHow

To replace Michael Steele?

The New Yorker

The plan is to replace….

The New Yorker

He'll be tough to replace".

The New York Times

To replace Dominique Strauss-Kahn?

The New Yorker

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

To replace Mayor Daley?

The New Yorker

That's hard to replace".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to replace", ensure that the context clearly indicates both what is being replaced and what is replacing it. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to replace" without specifying what is being replaced. For example, instead of saying "I need to replace it", specify "I need to replace the broken vase".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to replace" functions primarily as an infinitive form of a verb, often used to express purpose or intention. As Ludwig AI indicates, it signifies the act of substituting one thing for another. Examples from Ludwig include "If ready to replace, locate replacement BIB" and "The plan is to replace…."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to replace" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates substitution or restoration. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an infinitive verb form expressing purpose or intention. Predominantly found in news and media sources, its register is generally neutral, adapting to the specific context. When using "to replace", ensure clarity by specifying both what is being replaced and what is replacing it. Remember, while alternatives like "to substitute for" or "to supplant" exist, context is key to choosing the most appropriate substitute. Lastly, avoid vague replacements by explicitly stating what you intend to replace.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to substitute for

Indicates a direct exchange or acting in place of something else; emphasizes equivalence.

to supplant

Implies displacing something, often forcefully or strategically, with something else.

to supersede

Suggests replacing something established with something newer or more effective.

to exchange for

Highlights the act of swapping one thing for another, emphasizing the trade.

to swap out

Informal term indicating a quick or easy replacement of one item with another.

to fill in for

Specifically refers to temporarily taking someone's place or doing their job.

to stand in for

Similar to "fill in for", but can also apply to objects or ideas representing others.

to act as a substitute

Formal way of indicating something or someone is serving as a replacement.

to give way to

Indicates that something is being replaced, often due to progress or change.

to switch over to

Implies a change from one thing to another, often in a systematic or planned manner.

FAQs

How do I use "to replace" in a sentence?

Use "to replace" when you want to express the action of substituting one thing for another. For example, "I need "to replace the tires" on my car".

What can I say instead of "to replace"?

You can use alternatives like "to substitute for", "to supplant", or "to supersede" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "replace with" or "replace by"?

While both can be used, "replace with" is more common. "Replace by" often implies being replaced by an action or event, not a thing. For example, you "replace the old phone with a new one", but a broken service might be "replaced by" a new policy.

What is the difference between "to replace" and "to substitute"?

"To replace" generally means to take the place of something else, whereas "to substitute" means to use something else instead of the original. They are often interchangeable, but "to replace" implies a more complete removal of the original.