In ḥadhf something is not expressly stated but is understood: “ask the town” conveys asking its people. In ibdāl the relevant expression is present, yet its meaning is best clarified by another appropriate expression.
For example, in “yadhkuru ālihatakum” the verb “mentions” is actually present. In its context, it implies speaking critically about the idols. Explaining “mentions” as “speaks against” does not delete or change the verse.
Ibdāl sometimes overlaps with figurative language and implied grammatical relationships. A sound reading identifies the original wording, its contextual sense and the evidence supporting that sense. The Qur’anic expression remains intact.