substitution

UK: ˌsʌbstɪˈtjuːʃən | US: ˌsʌbstɪˈtuːʃən

Definition
  1. n. the act of replacing one person or thing with another

  2. n. (mathematics) the replacement of a variable or term with another expression

  3. n. (sports) a player brought into a game to replace another

Structure
sub <under, instead>stit <stand>ution <noun suffix>
Etymology

substitution = sub<under, instead> + stit<stand> + ution<noun suffix>

  • sub: From Latin sub-, meaning "under" or "instead of." Here, it implies replacement.
  • stit: From Latin statuere (to set, stand), related to status (position). The root conveys the idea of "placing" or "standing in."
  • ution: A noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -tio, indicating an action or process.

Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin substitutio, combining sub- (replacement) + statuere (to place). It originally described the act of "placing under" or "appointing a successor." Over time, it broadened to mean any replacement, retaining its logical structure: sub- (instead) + stit (position) + -ution (action).

Examples
  1. The coach made a substitution in the second half to boost the team's energy.

  2. In algebra, variable substitution simplifies complex equations.

  3. The substitution of plastic with biodegradable materials is an eco-friendly trend.

  4. Her temporary substitution as manager surprised the staff.

  5. The recipe allows for the substitution of butter with oil if needed.