The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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substitute

noun

/ˈsʌb stɪˌtut/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of substitute

A person or thing that takes the place or acts as a replacement for someone or something else.
"The coach decided to bring in a substitute player to give the star athlete a break."

Detailed meaning of substitute

It is a term commonly used in various contexts, such as education, sports, work, and everyday life. In education, a substitute teacher steps in for the regular teacher, ensuring the continuation of classroom activities in their absence. Similarly, in sports, a substitute player replaces another player during a game or match. In the workplace, a substitute may be hired temporarily to fulfill the duties of an absent employee. In everyday life, a substitute can be anything that serves as an alternative or stand-in for a desired or unavailable option. Overall, a substitute plays a crucial role by providing a temporary or alternative solution in various situations, maintaining continuity and functionality.

Example sentences containing substitute

1. The substitute teacher arrived promptly to take over the classroom in the absence of the regular teacher.
2. I couldn't find my usual ingredients for the recipe, so I had to use a substitute instead.
3. The substitute goalkeeper made a brilliant save, securing the team's victory.
4. She relied on a substitute for her morning coffee after realizing she had run out of her favorite blend.
5. The company hired a substitute receptionist to cover for the employee who was on vacation.
6. Due to the actor's illness, a substitute was called in to perform the lead role in the play.

History and etymology of substitute

The noun 'substitute' finds its origins in the Latin word 'substitutus,' which is closely tied to the Latin root word 'substituere.' This root word consists of 'sub,' meaning 'under,' and 'stituere,' which conveys the idea of 'placing' or 'setting up.' 'Substitute' has evolved from this etymological foundation to refer to a person or thing that takes the place or acts as a replacement for someone or something else. Its etymology connects to the notion of something being set in the position of another, allowing for a seamless transition, without initially delving into its specific meaning.

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Further usage examples of substitute

1. The substitute bus driver took the students on an alternative route to avoid traffic.
2. He couldn't attend the meeting, so he sent his colleague as a substitute.
3. The restaurant ran out of the main course, but the chef offered a delicious substitute.
4. The substitute computer proved to be a suitable replacement until the original one was repaired.
5. In her absence, the substitute manager ensured smooth operations and maintained team morale.
6. The substitute teacher handled the rowdy class with ease.
7. Can you find a good substitute for butter in this recipe?
8. The backup quarterback became the team's savior.
9. She's a reliable substitute when our receptionist is out.
10. The understudy delivered a remarkable performance.
11. Tofu can be a great substitute for meat in stir-fry.
12. His absence required a last-minute substitute.
13. The emergency generator served as a substitute power source.
14. The alternate route was a suitable substitute for the closed highway.
15. The deputy mayor acts as a substitute in the mayor's absence.
16. Almond milk is a popular substitute for dairy milk.
17. The stand-in actor performed admirably on short notice.
18. We need to find a temporary substitute for the broken printer.
19. The digital alarm clock served as a backup substitute.
20. Artificial sweeteners can be used as a sugar substitute.
21. She became a substitute mother figure to her nieces.
22. The reserve goalie made a crucial save in overtime.
23. The spare key acted as a substitute when the main one was lost.
24. The substitute judge presided over the trial impartially.
25. We hired a substitute cleaner while our regular one is on vacation.