Alternately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
alternately
[ษหlหtษหnษtli ]
Definitions
in a alternating sequence
Taking turns in sequence; first one thing, then the other.
Synonyms
interchangeably, sequentially, successively.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| alternately |
Use this word when referring to situations where two things happen one after the other in a regular pattern.
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| sequentially |
This word fits when describing events or actions that follow a specific order, one after another.
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| interchangeably |
This word is appropriate when indicating that two or more items can be used in place of one another without any significant difference.
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| successively |
Use this word when discussing events or occurrences that happen one after another without interruption.
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Examples of usage
- During the game, the players alternately took shots at the target.
- She alternately laughed and cried while watching the movie.
used to describe something that occurs in turns
Occurring in or forming a repeated series.
Synonyms
intermittent, reciprocal, rotating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| alternately |
Used to describe actions or events that happen one after another in a regular pattern.
|
| intermittent |
Used to describe actions or events that happen occasionally and not regularly or continuously.
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| reciprocal |
Used to describe actions or feelings that are given and received in return, typically between two people or groups.
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| rotating |
Used to describe actions or positions that regularly change among a group of people in a cycle.
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Examples of usage
- They painted the room in alternately colored stripes.
- The alternately flashing lights caught the attention of the drivers.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In math, alternating sequences or series can be used to study convergence properties.
- An alternating series has terms that move from positive to negative or vice versa, simplifying calculations.
- Alternately, patterns in math may help solve complex problems by breaking them into manageable parts.
Pop Culture
- In music, alternating between two chords can create an interesting rhythm or mood.
- Television shows often use alternate storylines to keep the audience engaged with unexpected twists.
- The concept of alternate realities is a popular theme in movies, allowing characters to explore different life choices.
Cognitive Science
- Research suggests that alternating between tasks can enhance cognitive flexibility and attention.
- Doing activities alternately can help improve learning and retention of information.
- Switching back and forth between tasksโknown as task switchingโcan increase problem-solving skills.
Nature
- In ecology, species may alternate roles in an ecosystem, like predator and prey, showing a balance in food chains.
- Many animals exhibit alternating behaviors, such as foraging by switching between feeding sites to maximize resources.
- Seasonal changes can lead to alternating animal migration patterns and behaviors depending on environmental conditions.
Origin of 'alternately'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'alternare,' meaning 'to do by turns.'
- It was first used in English around the late 14th century.
- The prefix 'alter-' indicates change, emphasizing the concept of switching or varying.
The word 'alternately' originated from the Latin word 'alternatus', which means 'done by turns'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. The concept of alternating or taking turns has been a fundamental aspect of human interaction and activities throughout history. Whether in sports, games, or everyday tasks, the idea of doing things alternately has been prevalent in various cultures and societies.
See also: alternation.