Alterative: meaning, definitions and examples
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alterative
[ ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv ]
medical treatment
An alternative refers to a choice or option that can replace something else. In medical contexts, it often describes therapies or treatments that are not part of conventional medicine. These might include herbal remedies or holistic approaches aimed at promoting health and wellness.
Synonyms
alternative therapy, option, substitute
Examples of usage
- Many patients seek alternative treatments to improve their health.
- Acupuncture is considered an alternative therapy by some medical practitioners.
- The clinic specializes in alternative healing methods.
choices available
Alternative, as an adjective, describes something that is available as another option or choice. It is often used to highlight different possibilities in various contexts, such as lifestyle choices, energy sources, and more.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They decided to try an alternative approach to education.
- Alternative energy sources are becoming more popular.
- She follows an alternative lifestyle focused on sustainability.
Etymology
The word 'alternative' comes from the Latin 'alternativus', meaning 'the one that follows', derived from 'alternare', which means 'to interchange'. This Latin root relates to the idea of options that can replace one another. The term began to emerge in English usage in the late 19th century, primarily characterized within legal and philosophical contexts, indicating choices and substitutes. Over time, its application expanded into fields like medicine, sociology, and environmental studies, notably emphasizing the importance of choice in various aspects of life. Today, 'alternative' not only describes options in general but also often pertains to methods and practices that diverge from the mainstream, particularly in health, lifestyle, and energy sectors, reflecting a growing public interest in diverse ways of living and engaging with the world.