Definition

To take the place of something or someone else.

Example

In the recipe, you can substitute butter with oil if you prefer.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you had to substitute a different ingredient in your recipe.

Yeah, I ran out of flour, so I used almond flour instead.

That’s smart! I didn’t know you could substitute it like that.

It worked out great; the cookies turned out delicious!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person or thing that is used instead of another person or thing.

Example

The teacher had to find a substitute when she was sick.

Conversation

I heard you had to find a substitute for your math teacher this week.

Yeah, it was a bit stressful, but the new teacher was really nice.

Did you like the substitute better than your usual one?

Definition

To put or use one person or thing in place of another.

Example

You can substitute butter with oil in this recipe.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you had to substitute a different ingredient in that recipe.

Yeah, I couldn't find the right one, so I used yogurt instead of sour cream.

That sounds like a good idea! Did it turn out well?

Root Explanation

Substitute → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "statuere" (meaning to set or place). The word refers to placing someone or something in the position of another, effectively setting them under the original.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'set' ('statuere') 'under' ('sub-') another, which helps you remember that a substitute takes the place of something else.

Visually Confused Words