subs

word · lemma: sub

/ˈsəbz/
suhbz
/sˈʌbz/
suhbz

Definition

'Subs' is an informal word that most often refers to submarine sandwiches, but it can also mean subtitles (for movies/videos) or substitute players (in sports).

Usage & Nuances

Most common in US English, especially for sandwiches ('grab some subs for lunch'), but widely used for 'subtitles' in online/video contexts. In sports, more often written as 'subs' in team lineups. 'Subs' is always informal. Don't confuse with 'subscription', which is a different meaning ('subs' is rarely short for 'subscriptions' in everyday speech).

Example Sentences

We ordered two subs for lunch.

basic

Can you turn on the subs?

basic

The coach called in two subs during the game.

basic

Let’s grab some subs before the movie starts.

natural

The subs didn’t match the audio very well in that show.

natural

We had to rely on our subs after two players got injured.

natural