Meaning & Definition of word "Substitute"

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    Substitute

    /ˈsʌb stɪˌtjuːt/

    noun:

    • 1. A person or thing that takes the place of another.
      • Example: She was hired as a substitute for the teacher who was on leave.
    • 2. A replacement for someone or something.
      • Example: We used a substitute for sugar in the recipe to make it healthier.
    • 3. An alternative item used as a replacement.
      • Example: He can play as a substitute in the game if any of the starters get injured.

    verb:

    • 1. To replace one thing with another.
      • Example: You can substitute olive oil for butter in this recipe.
    • 2. To take the place of someone or something.
      • Example: The coach will substitute a player if they are not performing well.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'substituere', meaning 'to put in place of'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    substitute teacher:

    A teacher who fills in for another teacher.

    substitute goods:

    Products that can replace each other in consumption.

    substituting one for another:

    Using one thing in place of another.

    Related Words

    replacement:

    The action or process of replacing something.

    alternative:

    One of two or more available possibilities.

    proxy:

    A person authorized to act for another.

    Slang Meanings of substitute

    Meaning: Sub

    Example Sentence: I'm just a sub until the regular teacher comes back.

    Meaning: Stand-in

    Example Sentence: He's just a stand-in for the main guy.