alternate
Alternate (adj) means happening in turns, first one thing then the other, repeatedly. Example: “The fence posts were painted in alternate colors.”
How to Use Alternate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTaking turns, or a stand-in that takes someone's place when needed.
In American English "alternate" is often used where British English prefers "alternative" (a different choice) — the adjective meanings overlap but aren't identical.
British English tends to keep "alternate" (taking turns) and "alternative" (a different option) separate; American usage blurs the two more freely.
Word Forms
alternated past tense, alternates plural, alternates singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The fence posts were painted in _____ colors.
Etymology
From Latin alternatus, past participle of alternare ("to take turns"), from alternus ("one after another"), ultimately from alter, "other."
Related Words
Rhymes for alternate
See all rhymes for alternate →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “alternate” mean?
The word “alternate” means happening in turns, first one thing then the other, repeatedly. In plain terms, taking turns, or a stand-in that takes someone's place when needed.
How do you pronounce “alternate”?
“Alternate” is pronounced ol-TUR-nuht (/ˈɔl.tɚ.nət/ in IPA).
How do you use “alternate” in a sentence?
Here is “alternate” used in a sentence: “The fence posts were painted in alternate colors.”
What is another word for “alternate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “alternate” include seesaw and interchange.
What part of speech is “alternate”?
Depending on how it is used, “alternate” can be an adjective, a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “alternate” come from?
The word “alternate” comes from Latin. From Latin alternatus, past participle of alternare ("to take turns"), from alternus ("one after another"), ultimately from alter, "other.".
Is “alternate” a common word?
“Alternate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “alternate” have?
“Alternate” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: happening in turns, first one thing then the other, repeatedly.
What is the difference between alternate and alternative?
'Alternate' as an adjective means happening in turns, first one then the other, as in 'alternate stripes.' 'Alternative' means a different option or choice, as in 'an alternative plan.' In American English, 'alternate' is also sometimes used to mean a substitute or option, which can blur the two.
Why does alternate sound different as an adjective and a verb?
The pronunciation shifts with the part of speech. The adjective and noun 'alternate' end with a lighter final syllable, while the verb 'to alternate,' meaning to take turns, stresses the last syllable more strongly. Same spelling, but the stress helps signal whether it is a describing word or an action.
What is the difference between an alternate and a substitute?
As a noun, an 'alternate' is a person or thing standing in as a substitute for another, so the two are close in meaning. 'Alternate' is common in formal contexts such as juries or delegations, where a named alternate is ready to step in. 'Substitute' is the more everyday, general word.
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