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Alternatives Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alternatives

[ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪvz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

options

One of two or more available possibilities; a choice between two or more options.

Synonyms

choice, option, possibility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alternatives

Use when discussing multiple different ways or paths to achieve something. It often implies meaningful differences between the options.

  • We need to consider all our alternatives before making a decision.
  • There are several alternatives to this approach, some of which may be more effective.
option

Commonly used to refer to one specific possibility among others. It is often used in technical or formal situations.

  • You have the option to upgrade your plan at any time.
  • This option is currently unavailable.
possibility

Refers to something that might happen or be true. Often it involves a sense of uncertainty or potential.

  • There's a possibility it might rain tomorrow.
  • We need to explore every possibility before proceeding.

Examples of usage

  • There are several alternatives for you to choose from.
  • What alternatives do we have in this situation?
Context #2 | Noun

substitute

A person or thing acting or serving in place of another.

Synonyms

replacement, stand-in, substitute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alternatives

Used when presenting different options or choices that are available.

  • We need to look at all the alternatives before making a decision
  • If Plan A doesn't work, what are our alternatives?
substitute

Used when referring to something or someone that can be used or done instead of the original, usually when the original is not available. It can imply a less perfect fit.

  • You can use yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe
  • The substitute teacher took over the class while Mr
  • Smith was away
replacement

Used when referring to something or someone that takes the place of something or someone else, often as a permanent solution.

  • The broken part needs a replacement
  • The new teacher is a good replacement for the retired one
stand-in

Used for someone or something that temporarily takes the place of another, often in a role or position.

  • The actor was sick, so they used a stand-in for the rehearsal
  • Can you be the stand-in for the project manager while she is on vacation?

Examples of usage

  • Soy milk is a good alternative to cow's milk.
  • He was considered an alternative to the current manager.
Context #3 | Adjective

different

Of one or more things available as another possibility or choice.

Synonyms

additional, different, other.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alternatives

Use when discussing different options or choices available in a given situation.

  • We need to find alternatives to using plastic bags
  • If you don't like coffee, there are plenty of alternatives like tea or juice
different

Use when comparing items that are not the same in kind, nature, quality, form, or degree.

  • The twins may look alike, but they have very different personalities
  • There are many different types of cuisine available in this city
other

Use when referring to a person or thing that is distinct or separate from one already mentioned or known.

  • Do you have any other questions? I can't find my keys, have you seen the other ones?
additional

Use when referring to something extra that is added to what is already present or available.

  • We will need additional funding to complete the project
  • An additional meeting was scheduled to discuss the issue in more detail

Examples of usage

  • They explored alternative methods to solve the problem.
  • She had an alternative plan in case the first one failed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Decision-Making

  • Presenting alternatives increases the likelihood of making a decision, as it provides options to consider.
  • People may experience choice overload, where too many alternatives can lead to confusion or dissatisfaction.

Economics

  • In economic theory, the concept of opportunity cost highlights that choosing one alternative means giving up others.
  • The idea of alternatives is crucial in market dynamics, influencing supply, demand, and consumer behavior.

Psychology

  • The presence of alternatives can affect individual motivation; having choices often enhances commitment and satisfaction.
  • Research suggests that the fear of missing out (FOMO) can be triggered when people perceive too many viable alternatives.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, the notion of exploring different alternatives is celebrated, often linked to personal growth and creativity.
  • Alternative lifestyles or subcultures challenge mainstream norms, promoting diverse ways of living and thinking.

Origin of 'alternatives'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'alternare', meaning 'to interchange' or 'to do by turns'.
  • The prefix 'alter-' typically signifies something 'else' or 'different', which is central to the concept of alternatives.

The word 'alternative' originated in the late 16th century, from medieval Latin 'alternativus', from the verb 'alternare' meaning 'to do by turns'. It has since evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings related to choice, substitution, and difference.

See also: alternatively.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,980, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.