alternative
Another option or choice available
Examples
In a meeting
“Do we have an alternative if the first supplier can't deliver?”
Over coffee
“Is there an alternative to taking the highway? Traffic looks bad.”
Why this word
option
option suggests mere availability; alternative emphasizes mutual exclusivity or substitution
choice
choice focuses on the act of selecting; alternative emphasizes the other possibility itself
substitute
substitute implies replacement for something missing; alternative suggests equal standing between possibilities
Usage tip
Use when presenting or asking for other options besides the primary choice
Etymology
Latin: alternare 'do by turns' (from alter 'other') + -ive
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Related words
reconsider
Think about a decision or opinion again with the possibility of changing it
recourse
A source of help or option available in a difficult situation
adapt
To change something to fit new conditions or purposes
interchangeable
Able to be exchanged or substituted with one another
accommodate
To adapt or make adjustments to meet someone's needs
waive
To voluntarily give up a right, claim, or requirement