Dictionary
supersede
German → American English
American English
supersede
To take the place of something older, inferior, or no longer needed.
The new policy will supersede the old guidelines next month.Use 'supersede' in formal contexts when something older, less effective, or outdated is replaced by something newer. In everyday English, 'replace' is much more common.
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Frequently asked questions
What does 'supersede' mean in English?
It means to take the place of something else, especially something older or less important.
How is 'supersede' different from 'replace'?
'Supersede' is more formal and often implies that the new thing makes the old one no longer relevant; 'replace' is the more common everyday word.
Can 'supersede' be used in business or legal English?
Yes. It is common in business, legal, and technical writing when one rule, document, or version replaces another.
Is 'supersede' a verb or a noun?
It is a verb.