Synonyms of replace

replace

verb

ri-ˈplās 

1

as in to supersede

to take the place of

the old street lights were replaced by more energy-efficient models

Synonyms & Similar Words

• supersede
• supplant
• substitute
• relieve
• displace
• displant
• usurp
• cut out
• preempt

2

as in to return

to bring, send, or put back to a former or proper place

took the fragile vase down to look at it and then gently replaced it on the shelf

Synonyms & Similar Words

• return
• restore
• reconvey

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• take
• remove

Synonym Chooser

How is the word replace distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of replace are displace, supersede, and supplant. While all these words mean "to put out of a usual or proper place or into the place of another," replace implies a filling of a place once occupied by something lost, destroyed, or no longer usable or adequate.

replaced the broken window

When is it sensible to use displace instead of replace?

The words displace and replace are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, displace implies an ousting or dislodging.

war had displaced thousands

When would supersede be a good substitute for replace?

While the synonyms supersede and replace are close in meaning, supersede implies replacing a person or thing that has become superannuated, obsolete, or otherwise inferior.

the new edition supersedes all previous ones

In what contexts can supplant take the place of replace?

The synonyms supplant and replace are sometimes interchangeable, but supplant implies either a dispossessing or usurping of another's place, possessions, or privileges or an uprooting of something and its replacement with something else.

was abruptly supplanted in her affections by another

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of replace

Rather than replacing Lakshmana’s traditional identity as Rama’s devoted brother, these Telugu songs augment his characterization by foregrounding the domestic sacrifices associated with his loyalty. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026

Republican Cheryl Bean of Fort worth and Democrat Katie O’Brien Duzan are vying to replace the longtime lawmaker in the district that spans Dalworthington Gardens and Pantego, as well as parts of Arlington, Bedford, Euless, Fort Worth and Hurst. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Oct. 2026

There are seven candidates officially running to replace him, including Nusseibeh but not, yet, Orbán. — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 30 Oct. 2026

With every new wave of technology, the instinct is to replace the stack. — Greg Genung, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026