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Alternatively: meaning, definitions and examples

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alternatively

 

[ ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪvli ]

Adverb / Conjunction
Context #1 | Adverb

in place of something

Alternatively is used to introduce a suggestion or to mention something different to what has just been said.

Synonyms

instead, on the other hand, or else

Examples of usage

  • I could take the bus, but alternatively I could walk.
  • You can use butter or, alternatively, margarine in this recipe.
Context #2 | Conjunction

showing a different possibility

Alternatively is used to introduce a different possibility or choice.

Synonyms

alternately, on the other hand, or else

Examples of usage

  • You can come by train. Alternatively, you can drive here.
  • He could study law. Alternatively, he could pursue a career in journalism.

Translations

Translations of the word "alternatively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alternativamente

🇮🇳 वैकल्पिक रूप से

🇩🇪 alternativ

🇮🇩 alternatif

🇺🇦 альтернативно

🇵🇱 alternatywnie

🇯🇵 代わりに

🇫🇷 alternativement

🇪🇸 alternativamente

🇹🇷 alternatif olarak

🇰🇷 대안적으로

🇸🇦 بالتبادل

🇨🇿 alternativně

🇸🇰 alternatívne

🇨🇳 替代地

🇸🇮 alternativno

🇮🇸 að öðrum kosti

🇰🇿 балама ретінде

🇬🇪 ალტერნატიულად

🇦🇿 alternativ olaraq

🇲🇽 alternativamente

Etymology

The word 'alternatively' originated from the Latin word 'alternativus', which means 'interchangeable' or 'alternating'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to indicate a choice or option between two or more things. Over time, its usage has evolved to include presenting different possibilities or suggestions in a conversation or text.

See also: alternatives.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,499, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.