alternatively

alternatively — adverb

1. used before a statement that offers a different possibility from the one that ha

1.adverbB1
Definition

used before a statement that offers a different possibility from the one that has just been mentioned — for example, suggesting another travel route when the first choice is not available.

Example

Morning yoga runs on weekdays. Alternatively, evening sessions are on Tuesdays.

sentence adverb linking two independent clauses

Pay with cash at the front desk. Alternatively, the hotel accepts credit cards.

Synonyms
  • otherwise

    Stronger implication of consequence (e.g. 'Hurry up, otherwise you will miss the bus'); less neutral than 'alternatively'

  • instead

    Focuses on substituting one option for another rather than offering a free choice between two options

  • on the other hand

    Emphasises contrast between two ideas; more common in argumentative writing than 'alternatively'

Grammar Patterns

Alternatively + [independent clause]

Usage Note

Common in formal and neutral writing to connect two complete sentences. In everyday conversation, speakers often use 'or' or 'or else' to express the same idea more briefly.

Common Mistakes

We can go to the park alternatively stay home.
We can go to the park. Alternatively, we can stay home.
'Alternatively' must begin its own clause or sentence; it cannot replace 'or' within a single phrase.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: adverb/1

All three alternatives introduce a different possibility, but each carries a distinct tone. 'Alternatively' presents a neutral, free-standing second option — the speaker is simply listing possibilities without favouring one. 'Otherwise' adds a conditional or warning nuance: it implies something negative will happen if the first option is not chosen ('Apply now; otherwise the deadline will pass'). 'Instead' emphasises replacement — one option is set aside in favour of another ('She chose to walk instead of taking the bus'). 'Conversely' flips the argument entirely, introducing a contrasting or opposite viewpoint ('Older voters favoured the policy; conversely, younger voters opposed it'). In everyday choice-giving, 'alternatively' is the most neutral and versatile of the four.

otherwise ↗instead ↗conversely

Common collocations

Phrases

  • or alternatively
  • alternatively, if

Etymology

LatinFrenchEnglish

From the Latin root 'alternus' meaning 'one after the other' or 'every other', derived from 'alter' (other). The verb 'alternate' entered English through French in the 16th century, and the adverb 'alternatively' developed in the early 17th century as the -ly form of 'alternative', which itself was borrowed from French 'alternatif'. The modern use as a sentence adverb introducing a second possibility became established by the 1800s.