was replaced by

USAGE SUMMARY

"was replaced by" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English, particularly when referring to one thing being replaced or substituted by another.
For example: The overcrowded bus service was replaced by a more reliable train line.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Shall" was replaced by "should".

Independent

Andom was replaced by Brig.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dapper was replaced by grouchy and defensive.

Independent

Collins was replaced by Caleb Hanie.

The New York Times - Sports

He was replaced by Gen. David Petraeus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was replaced by Alfredo Figaro.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Tali was replaced by Mr. Vergine.

The New York Times

Serb rule was replaced by the UN.

The Economist

He eventually was replaced by Tommy Rees.

The New York Times

and was replaced by Charles Gibson.

The New Yorker

Cocaine was replaced by caffeine in 1904.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was replaced by", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is doing the replacing and what is being replaced. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using "was replaced with" when "was replaced by" is more appropriate. "Replaced by" indicates the agent doing the replacing, while "replaced with" describes the instrument or material used in the replacement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was replaced by" functions as a passive construction indicating that something or someone has been succeeded or substituted by another. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where one entity takes the position or role previously held by another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

28%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was replaced by" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote substitution or succession. According to Ludwig AI, this passive construction is frequently seen in news, encyclopedias, and wikis, and its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles. To ensure clarity, specify both the entity being replaced and the one doing the replacing, and avoid confusing it with "was replaced with". Alternatives like "was superseded by" and "was substituted with" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

took the place of

A more general and neutral way of expressing replacement, suitable for a wide range of contexts.

was superseded by

Implies a more formal or official replacement, often suggesting the new element is superior or more current.

was substituted with

Focuses on the act of substituting one element directly for another, often implying a like-for-like exchange.

was exchanged for

Highlights the reciprocal nature of the replacement, suggesting both elements have value and are traded.

gave way to

Suggests a gradual transition or yielding of one element to another, often due to pressure or obsolescence.

was supplanted by

Implies a forceful or strategic replacement, where the new element actively takes the place of the old.

was taken over by

Focuses on the act of assuming control or responsibility, often in a business or organizational context.

was displaced by

Emphasizes the removal or eviction of one element by another, often due to competition or force.

yielded to

Suggests a reluctant or inevitable surrender of one element to another, often due to weakness or pressure.

was unseated by

Implies a removal from a position of power or authority, often in a political or competitive context.

FAQs

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

Use "was replaced by" to indicate that one thing has taken the place of another. For example, "The old bridge "was replaced by" a new, modern structure".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "was replaced by"?

You can use alternatives such as "was superseded by", "was substituted with", or "gave way to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "was replaced with" instead of "was replaced by"?

While "was replaced with" is sometimes used, "was replaced by" is generally more precise when indicating the agent that performed the replacement. "Was replaced with" typically refers to the material or tool used in the replacement.

What's the difference between "was replaced by" and "was substituted for"?

"Was replaced by" indicates a direct replacement, whereas "was substituted for" suggests that the replacement is acting as a stand-in, not necessarily a permanent change. For example, "Coffee was substituted for tea due to the shortage" implies a temporary measure.