Supersede vs. Supercede – Which is Correct?
The correct spelling is supersede, meaning to take the place of or replace something previously in authority or use. Supercede is a common and persistent misspelling, often arising from phonetic confusion with words like “precede” or “concede.” Always use “supersede” for accuracy in all forms of writing.
Supersede or Supercede – Which is Correct?
The distinction between “supersede” and “supercede” is straightforward: only supersede is the correct spelling in English. “Supercede” is a widespread misspelling. The root cause of this error often stems from phonetic confusion, as many common words that end with a similar sound, such as “precede,” “concede,” or “recede,” are spelled with a “c” before the “ede” ending. However, “supersede” is an exception to this pattern, deriving from a different Latin root.
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| supersede | Verb | To take the place of (someone or something previously in authority or use); supplant. | The new software update will supersede the old version. |
| supercede | Incorrect | A common misspelling of “supersede.” | (Incorrect usage) The new rule will supercede the old one. |
How to Use Supersede
The verb “supersede” means to take the place of, replace, or supplant something that was previously in use, authority, or favor. It implies a change where the new item or concept takes precedence over the old one, often because it is newer, better, or more appropriate. It is a formal verb commonly used in business, legal, technological, and academic contexts.
Example 1: The company’s innovative product aims to supersede all existing solutions in the market.
Example 2: New regulations will supersede the outdated policies, effective next quarter.
Example 3: While the old traditions are cherished, modern practices sometimes supersede them to adapt to changing times.
What are the different forms of Supersede?
As a regular verb, “supersede” follows standard conjugation patterns:
- Present tense: supersede (I supersede, you supersede, they supersede)
- Third-person singular present: supersedes (he/she/it supersedes)
- Past tense: superseded (I superseded)
- Present participle: superseding (is superseding)
- Past participle: superseded (has superseded)
Etymology of the word Supersede
The word “supersede” comes from the Latin supersedere, which means “to sit above, be superior to, forbear, desist from.” It is formed from super- (“above”) and sedere (“to sit”). This etymology helps explain the “se” ending, distinguishing it from words like “precede” that derive from cedere (“to go”). English adopted “supersede” via Old French superseder, maintaining the original Latin spelling of the root.
Related Concepts
Understanding “supersede” can be enhanced by recognizing common spelling traps, particularly those involving similar-sounding suffixes. The “cede,” “ceed,” and “sede” endings are notorious for causing confusion. Most words with this sound use “-cede” (e.g., concede, precede, recede). Only three common English words end in “-ceed” (exceed, proceed, succeed). And “supersede” is the only common English word ending in “-sede.” This uniqueness makes it particularly prone to misspelling based on more prevalent patterns.
Similarly, understanding the subtle differences between other commonly confused terms, such as overwrite vs. override, is crucial for precise communication.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “The new constitution would supersede the old one, establishing a more democratic government.” (Historical text)
- “In the realm of technology, new innovations often quickly supersede their predecessors, making older models obsolete.” (Tech journal)
- “A recent Supreme Court ruling will supersede previous state laws regarding environmental protection.” (News article)
- “Her groundbreaking research was expected to supersede long-held theories in quantum physics.” (Academic paper)
- “He hoped his efforts to reconcile with his family would supersede the bitterness of past disagreements.” (Fictional narrative)
Supersede Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Replace | To take the place of. |
| Supplant | To supercede and replace (someone or something) by force or treachery. (Often implies a more aggressive or cunning replacement) |
| Displace | To move (something) from its proper or usual position; to take the place of. |
| Oust | To drive out or expel (someone) from a position or place. |
| Obviate | To anticipate and prevent or remove (difficulties, disadvantages, etc.); make unnecessary. (Implies a replacement that makes the old thing obsolete) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Why is “supercede” such a common misspelling?
“Supercede” is a common misspelling primarily due to phonetic similarity with other common verbs like “precede,” “concede,” and “recede,” which all end with “-cede.” English speakers often incorrectly apply this more common pattern to “supersede,” which uniquely ends in “-sede.”
Question 2: Are there any other common English words that end in “-sede”?
No, “supersede” is uniquely the only common English word that ends in “-sede.” This makes its spelling particularly tricky and prone to error, as there are no other words to reinforce its distinctive ending.
Question 3: Does “supersede” have a similar meaning to “precede”?
No, their meanings are opposite. “Supersede” means to take the place of something, effectively replacing it. “Precede” means to come before something in time, order, or position. For example, “The new law will supersede the old one,” but “The warning preceded the storm.”
Conclusion
In the choice between “supersede” and “supercede,” the answer is clear: supersede is the only correct spelling. While “supercede” is a very common misspelling, understanding its unique “-sede” ending, distinct from the more frequent “-cede” or “-ceed” patterns, is key to mastering its usage. Always remember that “supersede” means to take the place of or replace something. Getting this word right demonstrates attention to detail and a strong command of the English language.
