sustituto
“sustituto” means “substitute” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
substitute
Also: replacement, stand-in
📝 In Action
El sustituto del profesor llegó tarde hoy.
A2The teacher's substitute arrived late today.
Buscamos un sustituto para la pieza que se rompió.
B1We are looking for a replacement for the part that broke.
No hay un sustituto real para el trabajo duro.
B2There is no real substitute for hard work.
substitute
Also: alternative
📝 In Action
Puedes usar este ingrediente sustituto.
B1You can use this substitute ingredient.
El plan sustituto fue un éxito.
B2The alternative plan was a success.
Llevo un neumático sustituto en el maletero.
B2I carry a replacement tire in the trunk.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sustituto
Question 1 of 3
¿Cómo se dice 'The substitute teacher' en español?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'substitutus', which describes the action of putting one person or thing in the place of another.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'sustituto' and 'reemplazo'?
They are often interchangeable. However, 'sustituto' is very common for people (like a substitute teacher), while 'reemplazo' is used more broadly for machine parts or physical objects.
Is 'substituto' with a 'b' wrong?
No, it is technically correct and recognized by the Royal Spanish Academy, but it is much less common. 'Sustituto' is the standard spelling in modern Spanish.
Can 'sustituto' be used for food?
Yes! You can talk about a 'sustituto del azúcar' (sugar substitute) or 'sustituto de la carne' (meat substitute).