Skip to main content
to supersede

to supersede

15 7.2
To take the place of something older that people used before
  • verb
  • /ˌsuːpərˈsiːd/
translation icon : reemplazar
  • With the release of the updated software, the old version will supersede all previous updates.
  • supersede state law
  • supersede other
  • supersede the state

For me, it could supersede my most toxic instincts.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • And that desire to serve would supersede his personal identity.

  • The new law will supersede the outdated regulations that no longer apply.

  • Most important, remember: Our rules... supersede those of the outside world.

  • This would supersede the other if you want it to.

  • Who gave you another mission to supersede that of mine?

  • By that we mean the counselor's use of technology must not supersede, at least initially, that of the client.

    Academic text (2004)
  • Federal authorities are superseding local chains of command.

  • Washington wants to resolve the issue with a new international oceanic treaty that would supersede all existing claims.

    Academic text (2003)
  • Your freedoms as parents do not supersede your children's rights.

  • Personal, if not sectoral or factional, interest will thus tend to supersede any concept of national interest.

    Academic text (2004)

Synonyms

to replace
vsto supersede
1.8

Put another thing or person in place of one that is broken

takes the place especially when displacing an earlier authority or established use
to override
vsto supersede
96 6.7

To cancel a rule or decision because something else is more important

takes the place rather than only overruling decisions or rules
to supplant
vsto supersede
23 7.5

To take the place of a person or thing because the new one is better

takes the place without implying force and focuses on succession
to supervene upon
vsto supersede
  • Formal
9.9

To take the place of something or someone

takes the place more broadly not only in formal contexts

Antonyms

931 3.1

Keep an activity, quality, or schedule going over time

236 3.4

To keep having something such as a job or possession

How Permanent

to supersede
15 7.2
to supplant
23 7.5
to replace
1.8
to substitute
130 2.4

Surface Forms

supersede infinitive
superseded past
superseded past participle
superseding present participle
supersedes third person singular

Etymology

The word supersede comes from the Latin parts super- 'above' and sed- 'sit', the same root as the English word 'seat'. So to supersede is like 'sitting above' something and taking its place, which is why it means to replace what came before.