What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
replace
Example
I need to replace the light bulb in the lamp. [replace: verb]
Example
The company decided to replace the old equipment with new ones. [replace: verb]
Example
The substitute teacher will replace the regular teacher for the day. [replace: verb]
substitute
Example
The coach put in a substitute player for the injured one. [substitute: noun]
Example
I used honey as a substitute for sugar in the recipe. [substitute: noun]
Example
The manager will substitute the underperforming employee with a more capable one. [substitute: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Replace is more common than substitute in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between replace and substitute?
Replace is generally considered more formal than substitute, which is more commonly used in casual or informal situations.
