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Definitions

substitute

[suhb-sti-toot, -tyoot] / ˈsʌb stɪˌtut, -ˌtyut /
ADJECTIVE
alternative
Synonyms
STRONG
acting alternate backup counterfeit dummy ersatz imitation makeshift mock near proxy pseudo replacement representative reserve second sham simulated stopgap surrogate temporary
WEAK
additional another artificial experimental false other provisional spurious substitutive supplemental supplementary supposititious symbolic tentative vicarial vicarious
Antonyms
STRONG
finished genuine permanent real true
NOUN
someone or something that takes the place of another
Synonyms
STRONGEST
backup replacement stand-in surrogate
STRONG
agent alternate assistant auxiliary changeling delegate deputy double dummy equivalent expediency expedient fill in ghost locum makeshift procurator proxy recourse refuge relay relief representative reserve resort resource standby stopgap sub succedaneum successor supplanter supply symbol temp temporary understudy vicar
WEAK
dernier ressort ghost writer locum tenens pinch-hitter temporary expedient
Antonyms
STRONG
being entity permanent
VERB
interchange, exchange
Synonyms
STRONGEST
replace supplant swap
STRONG
alternate change commute deputize displace proxy relieve spell sub supersede switch
WEAK
act for answer for back up be in place of cover for do the work of double for fill in for fill one's position go as serve in one's stead stand for stand in (for) swap places with take another's place take over
Antonyms
STRONG
continue keep

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

No amount of ingenuity can substitute for fuel that doesn’t arrive, machinery that can’t be repaired or markets that can’t be reached.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

“It’s not a substitute for adding new housing supply.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Their quandary is that nobody else can substitute for America’s military and economic might in the foreseeable future.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

However, substitute Kelechi Iheanacho slammed in the decisive goal from close range to secure victory and revitalise Celtic's title challenge.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Her class was out of control—it took the substitute half the morning to stop the accusations and shouting.

From "Chasing Vermeer" by Blue Balliett

Vocabulary lists containing substitute

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Vocabulary of the Summer Olympics

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Words to Know Before You Defrost the Bird

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!