Replace
/rɪˈpleɪs/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo put someone or something new in the place of another.
/rɪˈpleɪs/
To substitute something for another.
The teacher replaced the broken crayons with new ones.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a toy that breaks. To 'replace' it means getting a brand new, same toy to take its place. It’s like swapping something old or broken for something new and working!
👶 For kids: To put something new in the place of something old or broken.
More Examples
We need to replace the leaky roof before winter.
He was hired to replace the retiring manager.
How It's Used
"I need to replace the old battery in my car."
"The company replaced the outdated software with a new system."
To take over from (a person) in a job or position.
/rɪˈpleɪs/
To take the place of someone else in a role.
He will replace the principal during her maternity leave.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, someone has to step aside for a bit – maybe they're sick or on vacation. To 'replace' them means to step in and do their job or role until they come back.
👶 For kids: To take the place of someone else who is missing.
More Examples
The new employee replaced the previous one who had resigned.
The substitute teacher will replace Mrs. Davis.
How It's Used
"Sarah will replace John during his leave."
"The coach replaced the tired player with a substitute."
To put something back in its original place.
/rɪˈpleɪs/
Please replace the lid on the jar.
💡 Simply: When you're done with something, you might need to put it back where it belongs. That's 'replacing' it. Like, putting the stapler back on your desk.
👶 For kids: To put something back where it belongs.
More Examples
She replaced the groceries in the refrigerator.
Remember to replace the cap on the toothpaste.
How It's Used
"Please replace the book on the shelf after you're done reading it."
"He replaced the items in the box after taking them out."
Idioms & expressions
replace someone in their shoes
To take over someone's job or position.
"It will be very difficult to replace the CEO in their shoes."
From Middle English replacen, from Old French replacier (“to put back, replace”), from re- (again) + placier (to place).
Used since the late 14th century, initially in the sense of 'to restore to a place.'
Memory tip
Think of replacing a worn-out tire with a new one.
Word Origin
"to put back, to place again"