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replace

v.
US //ˌɹiˈpɫeɪs// UK //ɹɪplˈeɪs// re·place
  1. 1 to substitute (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to use a new person or thing instead of the one you had before.

    to provide a substitute for something or someone that is no longer present, functional, or desired.

    Example

    We decided to replace our old car with a more electric model.

    Example

    The manufacturer had to replace the faulty components with upgraded versions to prevent further mechanical failures across the fleet.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'with' or 'by'.

  2. 2 to take over a role (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to take the place of someone in a job or position.

    to succeed someone in a specific role, office, or function.

    Example

    The company is looking for a new manager to replace Sarah when she leaves.

    Example

    It proved difficult to find a candidate with enough experience to replace the outgoing director, who had led the department for twenty years.

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  1. 3 to put back (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to put something back in the place where it is usually kept.

    to restore an object to its original or proper location.

    Example

    Please replace the books on the shelf after you have finished reading them.

    Example

    The librarian spent the afternoon replacing the reference volumes that students had left scattered across the study tables.

  2. 4 to pay back (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to give back money that has been lost or spent.

    to refund or repay a sum of money, especially to restore a fund to its previous level.

    Example

    The employee had to replace the missing funds from the petty cash box.

    Example

    The insurance policy requires the claimant to replace the depreciated value of the assets before the final settlement is issued.

Origin

From re- + place.

Word family

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