alternative

[ awl-tur-nuh-tiv, al- ]

noun

1. a choice limited to one of two or more possibilities, as of things, propositions, or courses of action, the selection of which precludes any other possibility:

   You have the alternative of riding or walking.

   Synonyms: selection, option

2. one of the things, propositions, or courses of action that can be chosen:

   The alternative to riding is walking.

3. a possible or remaining course or choice:

   There was no alternative but to walk.

adjective

1. affording a choice of two or more things, propositions, or courses of action.
2. (of two things, propositions, or courses) mutually exclusive so that if one is chosen the other must be rejected:

   The alternative possibilities are neutrality and war.

3. employing or following nontraditional or unconventional ideas, methods, etc.; existing outside the establishment:

   an alternative newspaper; alternative lifestyles.

4. Logic. (of a proposition) asserting two or more choices, at least one of which is true.

alternative

/ ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv /

noun

1. a possibility of choice, esp between two things, courses of action, etc
2. either of such choices

   we took the alternative of walking

adjective

1. presenting a choice, esp between two possibilities only
2. (of two things) mutually exclusive
3. denoting a lifestyle, culture, art form, etc, regarded by its adherents as preferable to that of contemporary society because it is less conventional, materialistic, or institutionalized, and, often, more in harmony with nature
4. logic another word for disjunctive

Derived Forms

• alˈternatively, adverb
• alˈternativeness, noun

Other Words From

• al·ter·na·tive·ly adverb
• al·ter·na·tive·ness al·ter·na·tiv·i·ty [awl-tur-n, uh, -, tiv, -i-tee, al-], noun
• qua·si-al·ter·na·tive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of alternative¹

First recorded in 1580–90; alternate + -ive

Synonym Study

See choice.

Example Sentences

This should be achievable, as alternative supplies can be obtained from countries including Uzbekistan, Australia and Namibia.

From BBC

The liberal opposition has rejected any alternatives to impeachment, calling Yoon a “ticking time bomb.”

From Los Angeles Times

They hear evidence, take expert testimony, are presented with alternative views and then, more often than not, come to significant consensus, often on issues where politicians have repeatedly failed.

From Salon

An alternative to rice, it's hard to find any hospitality venue in the Ivory Coast that doesn't serve attiéké.

From BBC

Rather than limiting their growth to more sustainable rates, cancer cells adapt by finding alternative ways to scavenge what they need.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• opportunity
• option
• substitute