alternate
To switch back and forth between two or more things
Examples
In a meeting
“We should alternate who leads the weekly standup meetings.”
Over coffee
“I alternate between coffee and tea throughout the day.”
Why this word
switch
alternate implies regular back-and-forth pattern, while switch is a single change
substitute
alternate suggests reciprocal replacement in sequence, while substitute implies one-way replacement
rotate
alternate specifically means between two options, while rotate can involve multiple items
Usage tip
Perfect for describing rotation or taking turns in schedules and responsibilities
Etymology
Latin 'alternatus' from 'alternus' (one after the other) from 'alter' (other)
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Related words
table
To postpone discussion or consideration of something
postpone
To delay or reschedule something to a later time
rotate
To take turns or alternate regularly among options
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
delegate
To assign a task or responsibility to someone else.