to substitute (X for Y, or a number in an algebraic expression)
HSK 5, v, 17 strokes, rank #3556, Hard
代替
dàitì
to take the place of
HSK 5, unknown, 17 strokes, rank #3556, Hard
dàitì(dai4ti4)dai ti T4
1instead
2to replace
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
代替dàitì(dai4ti4)
The term '代替' refers to the action of replacing or substituting one thing for another. It is commonly used in contexts where something takes the place of something else, such as substituting an ingredient in a recipe or replacing a person in a role. The word combines the meaning of 'to act on behalf of' (代) with 'to take the place of' (替).
Strokes17Frequency#3556DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese society, the concept of substitution is often relevant in contexts like education and work, where roles can be filled by substitutes or proxies, reflecting the importance of teamwork and continuity.
Memory Tip
Imagine a '代' (representing a proxy or agent) wearing a '替' (costume) to step into a role. This visual of an agent wearing a costume to replace someone helps connect the pronunciation 'dai ti' with the meaning of substitution.
Meanings of 代替
dàitì(dai4ti4)
1instead
2to replace
Exercise 1 of 2
By ear
Play it, then pick what 代替 means.
About 代替
代替Simplified
17Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#3556Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 代替
Podcast: 代替
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 代替
Quick Contrast
替代 (tìdài) - use '代替' when emphasizing the action of replacing, while '替代' often implies a more permanent or alternative substitution.
Usage Notes
Be cautious of using '代替' in overly formal contexts, as it may sound too stiff. It is frequently paired with nouns, such as '代替品' (substitute product) or '代替者' (substituting person). Also, ensure to use the correct tones as mispronunciation can change the meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, '代替' connects well with other vocabulary related to roles and responsibilities, such as '替代' (to replace) and '代理' (to act on behalf of). Focus on using it in sentences that involve comparison and substitution.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '代替' with '取代' (to supplant) and use them interchangeably. For example, saying '他会取代我' (He will replace me) instead of '他会代替我' can change the nuance, as '取代' implies a more permanent situation.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 代替
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 代替 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Jason looks at what you watch and listen to, the checkpoints you have cleared, our lessons and what you have been exploring, and explains 代替 through them.
Sign in free to make it personal. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
How Well Do You Know 代替?
Example
Learning Lab
Knowing 代替 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
The term '代替' refers to the action of replacing or substituting one thing for another. It is commonly used in contexts where something takes the place of something else, such as substituting an ingredient in a recipe or replacing a person in a role. The word combines the meaning of 'to act on behalf of' (代) with 'to take the place of' (替).
When to use 代替
Be cautious of using '代替' in overly formal contexts, as it may sound too stiff. It is frequently paired with nouns, such as '代替品' (substitute product) or '代替者' (substituting person). Also, ensure to use the correct tones as mispronunciation can change the meaning.
代替 or something close to it
替代 (tìdài) - use '代替' when emphasizing the action of replacing, while '替代' often implies a more permanent or alternative substitution.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '代替' with '取代' (to supplant) and use them interchangeably. For example, saying '他会取代我' (He will replace me) instead of '他会代替我' can change the nuance, as '取代' implies a more permanent situation.
Write 代替
代
替
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 代替 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 代替
代替 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
