This phrase literally translates to 'to a dead king, a king is put.' It is used to express the idea that when one thing or person is no longer there or no longer holds a position, it will be quickly replaced by another.
Examples
- Spanish: No te preocupes por perder tu trabajo, ya sabes, a rey muerto rey puesto.
- English: Don't worry about losing your job, you know, when one king dies another will replace him.