A2noun 2K

Alternative

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/"]/

Meaning of Alternative

a thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities

In simple words: Another option or choice.

Alternative in a sentence

• Many people are looking for an alternative to traditional education.
• We need to find a practical alternative that suits everyone.
• Alternative energy sources like solar and wind are becoming more popular.
• The artist is known for her alternative style of painting.
• There are several alternatives to the original recipe that are just as delicious.

How to use Alternative

Used to discuss different options or choices available. It's appropriate in both casual and professional settings, but avoid using it in overly informal conversations where simpler terms might be clearer.

Grammar pattern

alternative + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'alternate' — like taking turns, you have different choices.

Related words

Collocations with Alternative

• attractive
• effective
• good
• have
• offer
• provide
• be available
• exist
• alternative for
• alternative to
• have little alternative (but to)
• have no alternative (but to)
• leave somebody with no alternative (but to)

Synonyms for Alternative

• option
• choice
• variety
• substitute
• replacement

Opposites of Alternative

• only
• single
• main

Common mistakes with Alternative

• Confused with 'alternating', thinking they mean the same.
• Not using 'alternative' before a noun correctly, e.g., saying 'an alternative solution' instead of 'alternative solutions'.
• Using 'alternative' in situations without any other options; it implies there is at least one other choice.

Frequently asked questions about Alternative

What does Alternative mean?

Another option or choice.

What is the definition of Alternative?

a thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities

How do you use Alternative in a sentence?

Many people are looking for an alternative to traditional education.

Can you give another example of Alternative?

We need to find a practical alternative that suits everyone.

What are synonyms for Alternative?

Common alternatives include option, choice, variety, substitute, replacement.

What is the opposite of Alternative?

Opposite meanings include only, single, main.

What words go with Alternative?

It commonly pairs with attractive, effective, good, have, offer, provide, be available, exist, alternative for, alternative to, have little alternative (but to), have no alternative (but to), leave somebody with no alternative (but to).

What are common mistakes when using Alternative?

Confused with 'alternating', thinking they mean the same. Not using 'alternative' before a noun correctly, e.g., saying 'an alternative solution' instead of 'alternative solutions'. Using 'alternative' in situations without any other options; it implies there is at least one other choice.

How do you pronounce Alternative?

US: /["/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/"]/, UK: /["/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Alternative?

Used to discuss different options or choices available. It's appropriate in both casual and professional settings, but avoid using it in overly informal conversations where simpler terms might be clearer.

What CEFR level is Alternative?

"Alternative" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.