Alternative
/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsOne of several possibilities available in place of another.
/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/
A thing that can be chosen instead of something else.
There's no alternative to hard work.
💡 Simply: Another choice.
More Examples
What are the alternatives?
How It's Used
"We had no alternative but to cancel the trip."
"Consider all the alternatives before making a final decision."
Different from the usual or conventional.
/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/
Different or distinct from something else.
She prefers alternative methods of teaching.
💡 Simply: Different.
More Examples
He chose the alternative route.
How It's Used
"The band played an alternative rock song."
"The doctor suggested an alternative treatment."
Idioms & expressions
No alternative
No other choice or possibility.
"We had no alternative but to accept the offer."
From Latin *alternativus, from alternare "to alternate," from alter "other." The word's meaning has evolved to encompass a choice between two or more options.
Historically, 'alternative' was used more narrowly, implying a choice between only two options. Its broader usage, encompassing multiple possibilities, developed later.
Memory tip
Think 'alter' meaning 'other' - an alternative is another option.
Word Origin
"to alternate, to change"