What is replace? Pronunciation and usage in English

replace means . Learn how to pronounce and use replace through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of replace

replaceverb

/rɪˈpleɪs//riːˈpleɪs/
Definition & pronunciation of replace

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "replace" in English. It's a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

"Replace" is generally considered to have three syllables:

  • re- (like the "re" in "red")
  • place (like the word "place")
  • -ment (like the "-ment" in "experiment")

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • re-: Pronounced like "reh" – a quick, light "r" sound. Think of saying "re" in "remember" but shorter.

  • place: Pronounced exactly like the word "place." (rhymes with "race")

  • -ment: This is where it gets tricky. The "e" in "-ment" is pronounced like a very short, unstressed "uh" sound - almost swallowed. It's not like the "e" in "replace" itself.

3. Putting it together:

The whole word should sound like: reh-place-ment (with the emphasis on the first syllable – “reh”)

4. Tips & Tricks:

  • Listen to native speakers: This is crucial. Search for "how to pronounce replace" on YouTube or use online dictionaries like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary. Hearing it spoken is the best way to get the rhythm and sounds right. Here are some helpful links:

  • Practice slowly: Start by saying each syllable individually, then slowly blend them together.

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying "replace," then compare your pronunciation to a native speaker.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar tricky sounds?

Usage and examples with the word replace in English

Let's break down how to use the word "replace" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. Core Meaning: To Take Something Out and Put Something Else In

This is the most common meaning. It’s about substituting one thing for another.

  • Example: "Please replace the broken lightbulb." (The old bulb is being removed and a new one is put in.)
  • Example: "I need to replace my old shoes with new ones." (The old shoes are being swapped out for new ones.)
  • Example: "The company decided to replace the outdated software." (The old software is being eliminated and a new system is installed.)

2. Replacing People or Roles

"Replace" can mean to take someone's place, often due to departure or retirement.

  • Example: "She will replace John as the team leader." (John is leaving, and she's taking over his responsibilities.)
  • Example: "After his retirement, he was replaced by a younger manager." (His position was filled by someone else.)

3. Replacing Ideas or Concepts

It can also be used to signal a change in thinking or belief.

  • Example: "The government is trying to replace outdated policies with more modern ones." (Old policies are being swapped out for new ones.)
  • Example: “Let’s replace the negative focus with a positive attitude.” (Shifting from a negative way of thinking to a positive one.)

4. Replacing Parts (More Technical)

Often used in technical contexts involving fixing or repairing things.

  • Example: “You’ll need to replace the engine in the car.” (The engine needs to be swapped out for a working one.)
  • Example: "The mechanic replaced the faulty sensor." (The broken sensor was removed and a new one installed.)

5. Phrases Using "Replace"

  • Replace with: This is very common. “Replace with a new strategy.” “Replace the coffee with tea.”
  • Replace someone/something: “Replace the director with a consultant.” “Replace the old assumption with data.”
  • Replace something as: “Replace that assumption as outdated.”

Important Considerations & Synonyms:

  • Context is key: The exact meaning of "replace" depends on the context.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the situation, consider these alternatives:
    • Substitute: (A good general synonym) – "Substitute a tomato for the basil."
    • Swap: (Informal) - "Let's swap seats."
    • Change: (More general) - “Change the oil in your car.”
    • Remove: (Focuses on taking something out) – “Remove the dirt from the floor.”
    • Exchange: (Suggests a direct trade) – “Exchange your old book for a new one.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of situation are you thinking about using "replace" in? (e.g., a conversation, writing a story, describing a technical process?)

Synonyms for the word replace

Practice with vocabulary replace

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The IT department will need to ________ the old server next quarter to improve system performance.
  2. To ensure compliance, we must ________ all outdated safety protocols with the new guidelines by the end of the month.
  3. The project manager had to ________ the original timeline slightly due to unforeseen logistical challenges.
  4. Before implementing the new system, the team decided to ________ a comprehensive risk assessment.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Due to excessive wear and tear, the maintenance crew had to ________ the worn-out components of the machinery. a) repair b) replace c) adjust d) reinforce

  2. The company decided to ________ its traditional paper-based archives with a new digital record-keeping system. a) update b) remove c) replace d) establish

  3. Following the sudden resignation of the department head, the board will need to ________ her position swiftly to maintain operational continuity. a) fill b) appoint c) replace d) occupy

  4. To better suit the modern aesthetic, the interior designer suggested we ________ the color scheme of the conference room. a) swap b) alter c) transfer d) renovate

  5. Customers wishing to ________ an item purchased online for a different size or color must do so within 14 days with the original receipt. a) return b) exchange c) substitute d) convert

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The old, inefficient air conditioning unit needs to be removed and a new one installed.
    • Rewrite using "replace":
  2. Many organizations are now choosing sustainable alternatives instead of plastic packaging.
    • Rewrite using "replace" or a related word form:
  3. The legal team suggested making a few minor adjustments to the contract before final approval.
    • Rewrite without using "replace" or its forms, but with a suitable alternative:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. replace
  2. replace
  3. alter
  4. conduct

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) replace
  2. a) update, c) replace
  3. a) fill, b) appoint, c) replace
  4. b) alter
  5. b) exchange

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. We need to replace the old, inefficient air conditioning unit.
  2. Many organizations are now replacing plastic packaging with sustainable alternatives.
  3. The legal team suggested making a few minor amendments to the contract before final approval.

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