The phrase "be in place of" means to substitute or replace one thing or person with another. Antonyms for this phrase could include keeping something or someone in its original position or leaving things unchanged. Words that can be used as antonyms for "be in place of" include "retain," "maintain," "uphold," "preserve," "conserve," "continue," or "sustain." These words suggest a sense of preserving the status quo or keeping things as they are, rather than replacing them with something new or different. However, context is important when considering potential antonyms, as the opposite of replacing something may not always be leaving it in place.