Synonyms of supplant

supplant

verb

sə-ˈplant 

as in to replace

to take the place of

old traditions that were fading away and being supplanted by modern ways

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonym Chooser

How is the word supplant distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of supplant are displace, replace, and supersede. While all these words mean "to put out of a usual or proper place or into the place of another," 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

When is it sensible to use displace instead of supplant?

Although the words displace and supplant have much in common, displace implies an ousting or dislodging.

war had displaced thousands

When could replace be used to replace supplant?

In some situations, the words replace and supplant are roughly equivalent. However, replace implies a filling of a place once occupied by something lost, destroyed, or no longer usable or adequate.

replaced the broken window

When can supersede be used instead of supplant?

The words supersede and supplant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supersede implies replacing a person or thing that has become superannuated, obsolete, or otherwise inferior.

the new edition supersedes all previous ones

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of supplant

TikTok and streaming services have firmly supplanted radio as the prime avenue for music discovery, and algorithms help make older artists and even entire genres new again, slotting retro sounds alongside current hitmakers. —Matt Sebastian, Denver Post, 29 July 2025

Although Doval regained the closer role in late May, supplanting struggling right-hander Ryan Walker, All-Star Randy Rodríguez, another righty, would appear primed to step into the ninth inning. —Will Sammon, New York Times, 28 July 2025

Newer and more northerly houses of worship in Fairbanks, Alaska and Arkhangelsk, Russia have since supplanted Trondheim from that distinction. —Dan Fellner, Sun Sentinel, 11 July 2025

Video games have certainly supplanted board games as the preferred childhood entertainment. —Caleb Harris, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025