Alternate vs Alternative: Meaning, Usage & Examples
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Alternate | Every other, or to take turns one after another | We meet on alternate Sundays. |
| Alternative | Another option or choice | This route offers an alternative to the highway. |
What is the Difference Between Alternate and Alternative?
The words "alternate" and "alternative" are often confused in English. "Alternate" means something happens one after another or every other time. "Alternative" means a different choice or another option.
Meanings and Definitions
Understanding exact meanings is important for exams, essays, and daily life. Here are simple definitions of both words:
Alternate: Used to show things happening in turn, or replacing each other. Also used as a verb—for swapping between two things.
Alternative: Used to show a second option or a different choice. It means one thing can replace another.
Alternate vs Alternative: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Alternate | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Happening in turns or every other | Second option or substitute |
| Usage | Mainly adjective and verb | Mainly adjective and noun |
| Examples | Alternate days She alternated jobs |
Alternative ideas Choose an alternative |
| Common Context | Schedules, routines, positions | Choices, decisions, solutions |
| Synonyms | Every other, one after another | Option, substitute, other choice |
How to Use Alternate and Alternative in Sentences
Clear sentences help you remember the correct usage of each word. Here are examples you can use while writing or speaking.
Alternate Usage Examples
We have classes on alternate days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday).
You and I can alternate babysitting each week.
Alternative Usage Examples
When the computer crashed, I used an alternative method to finish my work.
If you do not like tea, coffee is a good alternative.
Alternate and Alternative in UK and US English
In American English, both "alternate" and "alternative" are common, and sometimes "alternate" is used as a noun or adjective for "substitute." In British English, "alternative" is preferred for the meaning "another option," and "alternate" usually means "every other."
US: "Alternate route" = different route
UK: "Alternative route" = different route
Common Student Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Mistake: "He is looking for an alternate solution." (Wrong if you mean another option.)
Correction: "He is looking for an alternative solution."
Mistake: "Come on alternative days." (Wrong for every other day.)
Correction: "Come on alternate days."
Summary Chart: Alternate vs Alternative
| Word | Used For | Sample | Tip to Remember |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternate | Every other one, rotation, turn-taking | Alternate seats in the exam hall. | Think of taking turns or skipping |
| Alternative | Options and choices | Find an alternative answer. | Think of another possibility |
Why Knowing the Difference is Important
Many exams test your understanding of these words. Using them correctly makes your writing accurate. It helps in daily English, solving grammar worksheets, and doing well in school tests or competitive exams.
Related Topics for Better Understanding
- Difference Between Can And Could
- Difference Between Was And Were
- Difference Between Been And Being
- Parts Of Speech
- Commonly Confused Words
- Pronouns Vs Determiners
- Adjectives And Adverbs
- Transformation Of Sentences
- Simple Sentences
To sum up, learning the difference between "alternate" and "alternative" helps improve your grammar and writing skills. Use "alternate" for things happening one after the other, and "alternative" when talking about choices or options. Practise with real examples to master their use for school, exams, and daily English. Vedantu guides you for easier English learning.
FAQs on Difference Between Alternate and Alternative in English
1. What is the main difference between "alternate" and "alternative" in English?
The main difference lies in their meaning and usage. Alternate typically means occurring in turns or every other one, while alternative signifies a choice between two or more options. Think of "alternate days" versus "an alternative solution."
2. Can you give examples of using "alternate" in a sentence?
Here are some examples illustrating the use of alternate:
- We attend meetings on alternate Fridays.
- The students took alternate seats in the classroom.
- The lights blinked in an alternate pattern.
3. When should I use "alternative" instead of "alternate"?
Use alternative when presenting a choice or a different possibility. For example:
- Is there an alternative route?
- We need an alternative plan.
- The alternative to this is quite unpleasant.
4. Is there a difference in usage between American and British English?
While both the US and UK use both words, there's a slight preference. In the UK, alternative is more commonly used in both senses. The usage difference is subtle, but maintaining consistency within a text or adhering to regional style guides is important.
5. What are some synonyms for "alternative"?
Synonyms for alternative include: choice, option, substitute, possibility, variation, other, different.
6. Is it alternate or alternative days?
It's "alternate days." Alternate implies a pattern of every other day.
7. Is it alternative or alternate in the UK?
While both are used, alternative is generally preferred in British English for both meanings, although alternate is still understood.
8. What is an example of alternate?
An example of alternate is: "They worked on alternate days." This means they worked one day and rested the next, in an alternating pattern.
9. What is the alternative for alternate?
The alternative to using "alternate" depends on the context. If implying a choice, use "alternative." If implying a sequence of turns, phrases like "every other," "in turns," or "rotating" might be suitable.
10. How do you use alternate and alternative in a sentence?
Here's how to use both: "We have meetings on alternate Tuesdays" (meaning every other Tuesday), and "We need an alternative strategy" (meaning a different or substitute strategy).
11. Why does "alternate" sometimes appear as a noun in official documents?
In some official contexts, "alternate" can function as a noun, referring to a substitute or representative. For instance, an "alternate member" of a committee.
12. How can I quickly decide which word to use during an exam?
To choose between alternate and alternative quickly, ask yourself: Does it involve a sequence of turns (alternate)? Or is it offering a choice or different option (alternative)? Understanding this fundamental difference will help you choose the right word.
