Alternately: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to situations where two things happen one after the other in a regular pattern.

• The lights flash alternately red and blue
• The dancers moved alternately forward and backward

This word fits when describing events or actions that follow a specific order, one after another.

• The documents need to be signed sequentially
• The tasks should be completed sequentially to avoid errors

This word is appropriate when indicating that two or more items can be used in place of one another without any significant difference.

• The terms 'AI' and 'artificial intelligence' are often used interchangeably
• In some recipes, butter and margarine can be used interchangeably

Use this word when discussing events or occurrences that happen one after another without interruption.

• She won three races successively
• The company has recorded profits successively for five years

Used to describe actions or events that happen one after another in a regular pattern.

• The lights flashed alternately red and green
• They worked alternately on the project, each taking turns

Used to describe actions or events that happen occasionally and not regularly or continuously.

• They experienced intermittent rain throughout the day
• The car had intermittent problems starting

Used to describe actions or feelings that are given and received in return, typically between two people or groups.

• Their relationship is built on reciprocal respect and trust
• The agreement includes reciprocal trade benefits

Used to describe actions or positions that regularly change among a group of people in a cycle.

• The team has a rotating captain for each game
• We have a rotating schedule for household chores