Definition
取而代之 is a formal, literary idiom meaning 'to replace or supersede someone/something, taking their position entirely'. It is stronger and more complete than 代替 (which simply means 'to substitute') or 取代 (which can be neutral), and unlike 替 or 代, it always implies a full takeover of a role or status.
idiom
to replace (someone in a position)to supersedeto take the place of
Examples
- 取而代之。Lǎopái gōngsī bèi xīnxīng qǐyè qǔ ér dài zhī.The established company was replaced by emerging enterprises.
- 取而代之。Tā dānrèn de zhíwèi bùjiǔ jiù huì yǒu rén qǔ ér dài zhī.Someone will soon take over the position he holds.
- 取而代之。Zhǐzhì méitǐ yǐjīng zhújiàn bèi shùzì méitǐ qǔ ér dài zhī.Print media has gradually been superseded by digital media.
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