thế chân
Definition
- Verb:
- To substitute for someone, to take someone's place temporarily or permanently: The core meaning of "thế chân" is to replace or stand in for another person, often in a specific role, duty, or position. It implies assuming the responsibilities or functions previously held by another.
- To succeed someone in a position: It can specifically denote taking over a role or job from a predecessor.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Anh ấy đã thế chân huấn luyện viên cũ từ tháng trước. (He substituted for the old coach last month.)
- Cô ấy tạm thời thế chân tôi trong khi tôi đi công tác. (She temporarily took my place while I was on a business trip.)
- Người quản lý mới sẽ thế chân ông Giám đốc sắp nghỉ hưu. (The new manager will succeed the retiring Director.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often carries a neutral or formal tone related to professional, organizational, or structured role replacement.
- It can be used in both planned successions (e.g., in a job) and temporary stand-in situations.
Variants and Related Words
- Thay thế (v): to replace, to substitute (a more general term for replacing objects or people).
- Phần mềm mới sẽ thay thế phiên bản cũ. (The new software will replace the old version.)
Synonyms
- Substitute for: To act or serve in place of another.
- Take over for: To assume control or responsibility from another.
- Succeed: To come after and take the place of, especially in an office or position.
- Fill in for: To temporarily perform someone's duties.
Related Idioms
- is the standard construction and functions as a set phrase.