alternatively
Americanadverb
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as another choice or option.
At the end of the unit, each group of students writes a book review or, alternatively, acts out a short scene from the book.
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in a nonstandard, novel, or unconventional manner or style.
We found significant differences between the traditionally and alternatively certified teachers with regard to classroom experience.
You are not automatically more creative just because you're in an alternatively decorated meeting room.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of alternatively
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Only Sonny and the viewer notice the difference, which suggests that he may be wrong, or, alternatively, that everyone else is.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 19, 2026
But some are alternatively assigned as social service personnel for health reasons.
From BBC ● Oct. 1, 2026
Bespoke splits the robotics theme into two baskets; one for firms with actual robotics or automation products as lines of business, and alternatively picks-and-shovels companies who produce critical components or systems.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 17, 2026
As the stock market alternatively displays the grace of a boxer and the oafishness of a drunkard, investors are once more confronting that which they fear most: volatility.
From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026
Baba reminds me of the way I felt when drivers in Pakistan got so close to bicyclists and other cars that I would alternatively gasp and hold my breath.
From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan
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