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Alternate or Alternative?
Alternate or Alternative?
What is the difference between "alternate" and "alternative"?- Alternate. An "alternate" is a replacement for the original. For example:
- The helicopter is grounded. We need alternate transport.
- Alternative. An "alternative" is another option to the original. For example:
- The helicopter is expensive. I suggest alternative transport.
- Our usual captain is on leave. Simon is the alternate.
- The landslide has closed the road. You must take an alternate route.
- The lights alternate between red and white.
- We will take alternate shifts.
- Our usual captain is demanding twice as much money than expected. Simon is the alternative.
- The landslide has closed one lane of the road. I would advise taking an alternative route.
A Video Summary
Here is a 1-minute video summarizing this lesson on "alternate" and "alternative."

More about "Alternate" and "Alternative"
Writers are often confused by the words "alternate" and "alternative." These words have similar meanings, but there is a difference. They cannot be used interchangeably.Alternate
The word "alternate" means a replacement (i.e., something that serves in the place of something else). In this meaning, it can be used as a noun or an adjective. For example:Alternative
The word "alternative" means another option (i.e., it does not replace the original). It can be used as a noun or an adjective. For example:Interactive Exercise
Here are three randomly selected questions from a larger exercise, which can be edited, printed to create an exercise worksheet, or sent via email to friends or students.- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?