Alternating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing a sequence where two or more different elements follow each other in a specific pattern.

• The lights were alternating between red and green
• He spoke with an alternating tone of excitement and calm

Used when two or more things are exchanged with each other in a way that they can take each other's place.

• The twins are so similar that people often end up interchanging their names
• You can start by interchanging the parts to see which combination works better

Used when describing movement in a circle or the process of taking turns regularly.

• The Earth is constantly rotating on its axis
• We take rotating shifts so that everyone gets a chance to rest

Used when describing the action of changing from one thing to another, often abruptly.

• She is always switching between different projects
• He kept switching the TV channels until he found something interesting

Used to describe actions or events happening one after the other in a regular pattern.

• The lights were alternating between red and green
• The band played alternating fast and slow songs

Used when talking about changing from one thing to another. It's often used with machines, devices, or choices.

• Switch off the lights when you leave
• She switched from tea to coffee

Often used when talking about choices or options that occur one after another, or when something happens every other time.

• We take turns driving on alternate days
• Students can attend classes on alternate weekends

Applied when talking about things that are different in small ways or change over time.

• The weather can vary greatly from day to day
• Prices vary depending on the season