‘递补’ is a verb meaning to fill a vacancy in strict order of succession—typically when someone steps down, resigns, or becomes unavailable, and the next person on a pre-established list assumes the role. The character ‘递’ means ‘to pass along’ or ‘in sequence,’ emphasizing order and progression; ‘补’ means ‘to fill’ or ‘to make up for,’ indicating replacement. Together, they convey the idea of stepping into a position not by election or appointment, but by automatic, ranked succession.

This term is commonly used in formal or organizational contexts: party committees, sports teams, academic committees, or competition rosters—anywhere an official list of alternates exists. It implies legitimacy through prior designation rather than ad hoc selection. While neutral in tone, it carries connotations of structure, fairness, and procedural correctness. It is rarely used in casual speech or personal relationships, and never for spontaneous or informal replacements.