替补 tìbǔ to replace
to replace (a damaged component with a new one, an injured player with a substitute player, full-time workers with casual workers etc); a substitute; a replacement
How to remember 替补: 替 to change + 补 to fix = to replace.
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How it is used
- 'Substitute, reserve; to fill in for' - 替补队员 (tìbǔ duìyuán) a substitute player; 替补上场 to come on as a sub.
- Common in sports and staffing: a backup who steps in for an injured/absent regular.
- Implies a standby role, distinct from 替换 (the act of swapping).