Master confusing words with ease
Alternate vs. Alternative
Alternate
/ɔːlˈtɜːnət/Examples:
The traffic lights alternate between red and green.He decided to alternate jogging with cycling for variety.In the dance routine, they alternate leading each set.
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Alternative
/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/Examples:
You have several alternatives.I'm not saying it didn't hurt, but there was no alternative.So I had no alternative.
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Antonyms:
This word has no antonymsWays to tell them apart:
- Alternate often involves a sequence or rotation, like taking turns between two options.
- Alternative is used when talking about one of two or more available possibilities.
- Remember that alternate can refer to change or substitute happening in succession.
- An alternative is a different choice or option, often implying it is not the standard choice.
- If youre alternating, youre switching; if you have an alternative, you have a choice.
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