Alternatively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Alternatively" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce another option or possibility in a discussion or argument. Example: "You can choose to study for the exam tonight. Alternatively, you could review the material in the morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Alternatively, a Dropbox account is also a good way to get photos on to your computer.

The Guardian - Tech

There are two possible routes, either by train to Paris and then on to the southern French port of Sète, from where the ferry to Tangier takes 36 hours, or alternatively, you can take the train to Madrid and onto Algeciras, before the 90-minute crossing to Morocco.

The Guardian - Travel

Gatland may alternatively be tempted to harness the physical threat of George North in the centre or start with Perpignan's James Hook, who filled in as full-back for part of the South Africa match.

The Guardian - Sport

Over the past decade, going back to the 2005 Ashes series, England have used reverse more effectively than almost any other side, something other teams have not just envied but attempted to replicate, or alternatively spike.

The Guardian - Sport

Alternatively, you can relax in the backpacker town of El Chaltén, admiring the views, the condors and the craft beers – La Vineria has a great stock of ales and Patagonian wines.

The Guardian - Travel

Alternatively, you can subscribe to our Digital Archive service which holds a copy of every Guardian and Observer from the first ever edition up to the year 2000.

The Guardian

Alternatively, just run a fork gently through the chocolate as it sets to mark a wiggly pattern in it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Every human being should have access to an adequate income for their livelihood, so we ask for work or, alternatively, universal basic income guarantee.

The Guardian - Opinion

Alternatively, Dr Richard Wise, psychologist at Windana Drug and Alcohol Recovery, believes the relationship between work and drinking may be bi-directional.

The Guardian - Opinion

Alternatively, you can enjoy the scenery on horseback.

The Guardian - Travel

Or, alternatively: centralise supervision, instead of relying on self-monitoring (as has famously failed with the Greek state); toughen sanctions and take decisions on whether to apply sanctions out of the hands of nation states.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Alternatively", ensure the alternative is genuinely viable and relevant to the context. Avoid introducing irrelevant options that may confuse the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "Alternatively" when the subsequent statement is not a genuine alternative, but rather a continuation or elaboration of the same idea. "Alternatively" should signal a different path, not an extension of the current one.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "Alternatively" is to serve as an adverbial connector, introducing a different option, plan, or possibility. It signals a shift from the previously stated choice, offering another course of action. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Alternatively" is a correct and frequently used adverb to introduce another option or possibility. It is primarily used in news, business, and science contexts. High-quality sources and consistent usage patterns validate its reliability. Consider using related phrases like "As an alternative" or "On the other hand" for variety. Avoid misusing it to introduce similar or elaborative ideas. Ludwig AI validates the correct usage of the term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As an alternative

This phrase directly indicates another option is being presented.

Or instead

Offers a direct replacement option.

On the other hand

This phrase introduces a contrasting perspective or option.

As a different option

Directly indicates a different choice is available.

Conversely

Indicates a reversed or opposite situation.

In another scenario

Suggests a different situation or possibility.

As a substitute

This explicitly presents a replacement option.

By contrast

Highlights a difference or opposition to what was previously stated.

In lieu of that

Offers something in place of what was just mentioned.

If not

Presents a condition where the initial option doesn't occur.

FAQs

How can I use "Alternatively" in a sentence?

"Alternatively" is used to introduce another option or possibility. For example, "You can drive to the meeting. Alternatively, you could take the train."

What are some phrases I can use instead of "Alternatively"?

You can use phrases like "as an alternative", "on the other hand", or "conversely" to introduce another option.

Is it better to use "Alternatively" or "Otherwise"?

"Alternatively" introduces a different option, while "Otherwise" indicates what will happen if a condition is not met. Choose the word that best fits the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "Alternatively" and "Instead"?

"Instead" usually replaces something, while "Alternatively" offers another choice. You might say, "I didn't buy the blue shirt; instead, I got the red one." Alternatively, "You can have tea or, alternatively, coffee."