alternative
ol-TUR-nuh-tihv
Alternative (adj) means offering a different choice from what is usual or expected. Example: “They looked into alternative sources of energy.”
adj
1
Offering a different choice from what is usual or expected.
"They looked into alternative sources of energy."
"She chose an alternative treatment instead of surgery."
"The school runs an alternative programme for pupils who struggle in large classrooms."
noun
1
One of two or more options available to choose between.
"Given the cost, a cheaper alternative would be the bus."
"If the train is cancelled, our only alternative is to drive."
"You have two alternatives: pay now, or pay a little extra next month."
2
A style of rock music that developed outside the mainstream.
"He mostly listens to alternative from the 90s."
"The festival's second stage was devoted to alternative, with several guitar bands playing loudly."
"My brother prefers alternative to pop, and his playlist is full of distorted guitars."
How to use alternative
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA different option to choose instead of the usual or expected one.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
viable alternative
alternative medicine
no alternative
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Word forms
- Plural
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They looked into _____ sources of energy.
Etymology
From Middle French alternatif, from Medieval Latin alternativus ("alternating"), built on the same root as "alternate."
Synonyms
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different
other
substitute
unconventional
non-traditional
backup
alternate
option
choice
Synonyms: see Thesaurus:option
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for alternative
See all rhymes for alternative →Frequently asked questions
What does “alternative” mean?
The word “alternative” means offering a different choice from what is usual or expected. In plain terms, a different option to choose instead of the usual or expected one.
How do you pronounce “alternative”?
“Alternative” is pronounced ol-TUR-nuh-tihv (/ɔlˈtɝ.nə.tɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “alternative” in a sentence?
Here is “alternative” used in a sentence: “They looked into alternative sources of energy.”
What is another word for “alternative”?
Words with a similar meaning to “alternative” include Synonyms: see Thesaurus:option.
What is the opposite of “alternative”?
The opposite of “alternative” — its antonyms — are different and opposing.
What part of speech is “alternative”?
Depending on how it is used, “alternative” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “alternative” come from?
The word “alternative” comes from Medieval Latin. From Middle French alternatif, from Medieval Latin alternativus ("alternating"), built on the same root as "alternate.".
Is “alternative” a common word?
“Alternative” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between alternative and alternate?
Alternative means offering a different choice from the usual, as in an alternative route. Alternate traditionally means every other one, or switching back and forth — alternate stripes, or alternate days. In American English 'alternate' is also used to mean alternative, but in careful writing the two are kept distinct.
What is an example of alternative?
Common examples include alternative medicine, an alternative route, or an alternative plan. Each points to an option that differs from the standard or expected one. The word simply flags a different path or choice; it does not say whether that choice is better, only that it stands apart from the norm.
Is alternative a positive or negative word?
It is essentially neutral. Calling something alternative only means it differs from the usual option, not that it is better or worse. Context adds any colour: 'alternative music' sounds fresh and independent, while an 'alternative explanation' is simply another possibility. On its own the word carries no built-in praise or criticism.
Does alternative always mean a second choice?
Usually it implies a different option set against a standard one, but not strictly a runner-up. An alternative can be equal to or better than the original — it is defined by being different, not inferior. As a noun, 'an alternative' is simply one of the available choices.
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