Supplant
hardNeutral tonesuh-PLANT
verb
Definition
to displace and take the place of, often by force or scheming
Memory hook
SUP-PLANT: a sneaky new PLANT pops up and crowds out the old one, taking its spot in the pot.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The young upstart schemed to supplant the aging chairman.”
“Streaming services have largely supplanted the rental video store.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The young upstart schemed to ______ the aging chairman.”
Show answer
supplant
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Supplant is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "displace" or "supersede" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "retain".
Related GRE Words
supersede
to take the place of; to replace as superior or obsolete
capitulate
To surrender or give in, often after resisting
conciliatory
intended to placate or win goodwill; appeasing
foment
to stir up or instigate (trouble, unrest)
implacable
unable to be appeased or pacified; relentless
nefarious
extremely wicked or villainous
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