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Definition of alternatively

alternatively

/ɔːlˈtɝːnətɪvli/
al · ter · na · tive · ly
Adjective:alternative
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alternatively Lexical Profile

alternatively Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

As another option or possibility; instead.

Example

"You can reserve a table online, or alternatively, you may call the restaurant directly."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'alternatively', which introduces a mutually exclusive choice or option, with 'alternately', which means 'taking turns' or 'back and forth in succession'.

• Nearby Words

alternatingly
alternation
alternative
alternatively
alternator
although
altimeter

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'alternative' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', tracing back to the Medieval Latin 'alternativus' and Latin 'alternus' ('one after the other'), derived from 'alter' ('other').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alternatively. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alternatively
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