What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
locum
Example
The hospital hired a locum doctor to cover for the regular physician who was on vacation. [locum: noun]
Example
I worked as a locum pharmacist for a few months while the regular pharmacist was on maternity leave. [locum: adjective]
substitute
Example
The substitute teacher filled in for the regular teacher who was out sick. [substitute: noun]
Example
We used almond milk as a substitute for regular milk since we ran out. [substitute: noun]
Example
He substituted his usual coffee with tea for a change. [substituted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Substitute is more commonly used than locum in everyday language. Substitute is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while locum is more specific to the medical field.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between locum and substitute?
Locum is typically associated with a more formal and professional tone, while substitute can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
