to supplant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to supplant" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate replacing or taking the place of something or someone, often in a context where one thing is seen as more effective or desirable than another. Example: "The new technology aims to supplant traditional methods of communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But nationally, Pisapia doesn't see someone poised to supplant Berlusconi.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Hispanics continued to supplant whites in the bungalow belt.

The New York Times

IT WAS no easy business to supplant the horse.

The Economist

The rotation rules are said to supplant this measure.

The Guardian - Business

Leaden Like a bullet To supplant Life from its centre.

The Guardian - Books

But to supplant the human is quite another.

The Guardian - Tech

"Charlie" has done nothing to supplant that motif.

The New York Times

Those seeking to supplant them oppose the agreement.

The New York Times

A wealth of other music by this prolific and fascinating composer exists to supplant them.

The New York Times - Arts

Gothic art began to supplant Romanesque in the mid-12th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Turlough had schemed to supplant Shane during Shane's absence in London.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to supplant" when you want to emphasize a transition where something is not just replaced but also possibly displaced or rendered obsolete.

Common error

Avoid using "to supplant" when a simpler word like "to replace" is more appropriate. "To supplant" carries a connotation of something being forcibly or completely replaced, which may not always be the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to supplant" functions primarily as a verb complement or part of a verb phrase, indicating an action of replacing or superseding something else. It is often used to describe the intended outcome or purpose of a change or development. This usage aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to supplant" is a versatile and widely used expression that effectively conveys the idea of one entity replacing another, often with a sense of displacement or superiority. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. It commonly appears in news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, indicating its broad applicability and neutral to professional register. While "to supplant" is similar to "to replace", it carries a stronger connotation of complete substitution or even forceful displacement. When using "to supplant", ensure that the context warrants this stronger implication and that a simpler alternative like "to replace" is not more appropriate. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, writers can effectively employ "to supplant" to enhance the clarity and impact of their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to replace

This is a direct and common synonym, indicating the substitution of one thing for another.

to supersede

Implies replacing something that is old or outdated with something newer and more effective.

to displace

Suggests removing something from its position or role, often by force or competition.

to take over from

Indicates assuming control or responsibility from someone or something else.

to dethrone

Specifically means to remove a monarch or someone in a position of power.

to oust

To remove or expel from a position or place, typically implying forceful removal.

to override

To nullify or prevail over, often in the context of rules or decisions.

to eclipse

To surpass or outshine something, making it less significant.

to succeed

To follow in order or sequence, especially to take over a throne, office, or other position.

to usurp

To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force.

FAQs

How can I use "to supplant" in a sentence?

You can use "to supplant" to indicate that something is replacing something else, often in a significant or impactful way. For example, "The new technology aims "to supplant traditional methods" of communication."

What are some alternatives to "to supplant"?

Alternatives include "to replace", "to supersede", "to displace", and "to take over from". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "to supplant" formal or informal?

"To supplant" is generally considered a neutral to formal term. It is appropriate for use in academic writing, news articles, and professional communication, but might sound overly sophisticated in casual conversation.

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

While both terms indicate substitution, "to supplant" often implies a more complete or forceful replacement. "To replace" is a general term, whereas "to supplant" suggests that the new entity is superior or more dominant. You could "replace a battery" in a device, but a new government might seek "to supplant the old regime".