1
Replace a system
Take over the function of an established method or institution.
Example
Digital records gradually supplanted the paper filing system.
supplant
/səˈplɑːnt/ · suh-PLAHNTverb
To replace or supersede something previously established.
Use supplant when one system, method, technology, or group takes the place formerly occupied by another.
What supplant Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Displace an explanation
Become the preferred theory while an older account loses acceptance.
Example
The new model did not entirely supplant earlier explanations.
3
Replace a technology
Become more common or useful than a previous tool or format.
Example
Digital maps have largely supplanted printed road atlases.
Use supplant Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The new model did not entirely supplant earlier explanations.
Electric lighting gradually supplanted gas lamps in many cities.
The revised method supplemented rather than supplanted the original procedure.
Precision Matters
Supplant overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
supplant
vs.Often implies displacement of something established or dominant.
replace
Broadly means put one thing in the place of another.
supplant
vs.Takes the former thing's place.
supplement
Adds to something while leaving it in use.
supplant
vs.Stresses displacement through competition or adoption.
supersede
Formally means take precedence over or replace as newer or superior.
supplant
vs.Can describe an impersonal system replacing another.
succeed
Often means follow someone in an office or achieve a desired result.
Test supplant in Context
The apps are taking the place formerly occupied by printed atlases.
1
As navigation apps became more accurate and widely available, they began to ___ printed road atlases as the primary tool for planning journeys.