a concrete alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a concrete alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a specific, tangible option or solution in contrast to others. Example: "In our meeting, we need to present a concrete alternative to the current proposal that addresses the budget concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Company directors had wanted the hedge fund manager to provide a concrete alternative to Mr. Dell's offer.

The New York Times

But if they continue to step up the use of force against passive resistance, as happened in Taksim's Gezi Park, the opposition could speedily emerge as a concrete alternative.

The Guardian - Opinion

The most significant physical movement away from Nusra by American-aided groups, in fact, came when Turkey offered them something in return: real backing to take a border area from the Islamic State that could one day be a safe place for the opposition to try to set up governance that offers a concrete alternative to Mr. Assad.

The New York Times

Mr Harvey suggested his party "had got away with it" by entering the 2010 election on a pledge to oppose Trident renewal but not set out a concrete alternative.

BBC

For example, Pollin et al. (2008) refer to the higher wages that "low-wage workers deserve" (p. 13, italics added), and view living wages as "a means through which we can both protest and formulate a concrete alternative to the economic injustices that have prevailed in the United States for over a generation" (p. 21).

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

There's still a lack of agreement on what a concrete alternative to EU membership would be.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The combination of photos and texts, placed in a minimalist grid, forced a critique of assumptions about the Bowery without offering any concrete alternatives.

The New York Times - Arts

However, as long as a concrete policy alternative is absent, the window of opportunity cannot be opened fully and probably not even partially.

Health Research Policy and Systems

So will we now see concrete alternative proposals as the Conservatives prepare for government themselves?

The Guardian

Republicans Their mantra remains "repeal and replace," but they have no concrete alternative yet.

The New York Times

PRH management demanded the clause be dropped but, the unions said, offered no concrete alternative beyond that required by law.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a concrete alternative", ensure you provide specific details and evidence to support its feasibility and advantages over the existing situation.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a concrete alternative" without sufficient detail or supporting evidence. Ensure the alternative is well-defined and clearly addresses the problem at hand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a concrete alternative" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is both grammatically sound and practically useful in conveying tangible solutions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a concrete alternative" is a noun phrase used to denote a specific, practical, and tangible option or solution, as indicated by Ludwig. While the phrase exhibits grammatical correctness and is employed across varied contexts, its frequency can be considered uncommon. Predominantly featured in news media, scientific articles, and formal business communications, this phrase is deemed suitable for neutral to formal registers. When using "a concrete alternative", ensure you provide enough details and evidence. Ludwig AI supports its practical use and suggests alternatives such as "a realistic alternative" or "a viable option".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a realistic alternative

Emphasizes feasibility and practicality over pure theoretical possibility.

a practical alternative

Underlines the workability and usefulness of the alternative.

a viable alternative

Highlights the feasibility and sustainability of the alternative.

a solid alternative

Highlights the stability and reliability of the alternative.

a real alternative

Emphasizes the genuineness and authenticity of the alternative.

a substantive alternative

Focuses on the significant and meaningful nature of the alternative.

a tangible alternative

Emphasizes that the alternative is perceptible and real, not abstract.

a detailed alternative

Focuses on the well-developed and comprehensive nature of the proposed alternative.

a definite alternative

Highlights the clarity and certainty of the alternative.

a certain alternative

Highlights the sureness of the alternative.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a concrete alternative" in a sentence?

Use "a concrete alternative" to introduce a specific, practical solution or option when contrasting it with other less defined or theoretical possibilities. For example, "We need "a concrete alternative" to the current policy that addresses these specific issues."

What phrases can I use instead of "a concrete alternative"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a realistic alternative", "a practical solution", or "a viable option".

Is it better to say "a concrete alternative" or "a practical alternative"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a concrete alternative" emphasizes tangibility and specificity, while "a practical alternative" highlights feasibility and usefulness. The best choice depends on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What makes "a concrete alternative" different from a general "alternative"?

"A concrete alternative" implies a specific, well-defined, and actionable option, whereas a general "alternative" can be vague or theoretical. The term "concrete" adds weight, implying that the proposed solution is carefully worked out and ready to be implemented.