supplant

supplant — verb

1. to push the person or thing that currently holds a position out of that position

1.動詞及物B2
釋義

to push the person or thing that currently holds a position out of that position and take it yourself, especially because you are newer, stronger, or more effective

例句

Talia's design was quickly supplanted by a cheaper and faster option.

passive: be supplanted by [something better]

The old wooden footbridge was supplanted by a steel structure last year.

同義詞
  • replace

    neutral and much more common; does not carry the sense of forcing out

  • displace

    similar to 'supplant' but often about physical movement rather than taking over a position

  • supersede

    more formal; often used for rules, systems, or technologies that become outdated

  • oust

    more forceful and direct; suggests being thrown out rather than gradually replaced

反義詞
  • retain

    to keep someone or something in its position

  • preserve

    to keep something as it is, not allowing it to be replaced

文法句型

supplant + noun phrase

be supplanted by + noun phrase

用法筆記

Frequently used in the passive voice with 'by' to show who or what is being replaced (e.g., 'was supplanted by'). The word carries a stronger meaning than 'replace' — it suggests the original person or thing was pushed out, not just swapped for something else.

常見錯誤

❌I supplanted my old phone with a new one.
✅I replaced my old phone with a new one.
💡'supplant' sounds too strong and dramatic for routine personal purchases; use 'replace' instead.
❌The government supplanted the old law.
✅The government replaced the old law.
💡'supplant' implies forcing out by being stronger, not a normal legal process.