adj
alternative
ol-TUR-nuh-tihv
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."
noun
1
One of two or more options available to choose between.
"Given the cost, a cheaper alternative would be the bus."
2
A style of rock music that developed outside the mainstream.
"He mostly listens to alternative from the 90s."
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
Word Forms
alternatives 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."