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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Antonyms:
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.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
This word has no antonymsWays to tell them apart:
- Think of alternate as referring to a choice or occurrence that happens in turns or repeatedly in a cycle.
- Remember alternative as another option or choice from multiple possibilities, often used when one is unsuitable.
- Alternate often suggests a sequence or pattern of taking turns.
- Alternative implies having another path, plan, or substitute.
- Alternate ends with ate, similar to tate, which can help you think of taking turns in rotate. Alternative ends with ive, often bringing to mind something creative or inventive, like thinking of other choices.
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