In somebody’s/something’s stead
phrase
Instead of someone or something, as their replacement.
When the king was too ill to appear in the court, his son spoke in his stead.
Often appears as...
- serve in somebody’s stead
- act in somebody’s stead
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
On behalf of someone or something, typically while they are unavailable.
The deputy mayor will attend the meeting in the mayor's stead.
Often appears as...
- stand in somebody’s stead
- speak in somebody’s stead
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
Instead of someone or something, as their replacement.
When the king was too ill to appear in the court, his son spoke in his stead.
Often appears as...
- serve in somebody’s stead
- act in somebody’s stead
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
On behalf of someone or something, typically while they are unavailable.
The deputy mayor will attend the meeting in the mayor's stead.
Often appears as...
- stand in somebody’s stead
- speak in somebody’s stead
Usage tips
Formal
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Replacement Context
Used when someone is taking over another's duties or role temporarily or permanently.
I'll be singing in her stead at the concert, since she lost her voice.
Pro Tip 2/3Impersonal Tone
The phrase often implies a formal or distant relationship with the person being replaced.
His counsel will be acting in his stead during the trial.
Pro Tip 3/3Historical Use
Frequently found in historical or literary contexts, suggesting a traditional tone.
The knight fought in his lord's stead in the joust.
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