a credible alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a credible alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing options or choices that are believable and trustworthy in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the proposals, we found that the new supplier offers a credible alternative to our current vendor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He said he offered a "credible alternative" to Sarkozy.

The Guardian

Can it really offer a credible alternative to traditional games?

The Guardian - Tech

We need a credible alternative story to disintegrating Osbornomics.

The Guardian - Film

Fatah no longer represented a credible alternative to Hamas.

The Guardian - Opinion

But they have not offered a credible alternative.

The New Yorker

It could present a credible alternative to the Kirchners.

The Economist

They promised to come up with a credible alternative quickly.

The Economist

Baillie said the BNP result "shows us to be a credible alternative".

The Guardian

If and when Labour fails, people will be looking for a credible alternative.

The Guardian

But city planners and their allies said the opponents never offered a credible alternative.

The New York Times

• INSIDE TRACK: Not quite a Mazda or VW, but a credible alternative.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a credible alternative", ensure that the context clearly establishes what the original option is, and why an alternative is needed. Providing specific details strengthens the argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting an alternative as "a credible alternative" without providing sufficient evidence or justification for its credibility. Back up the claim with supporting facts or data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a credible alternative" functions as a noun phrase, where 'credible' modifies the noun 'alternative'. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and common, serving to describe an option or substitute that is believable and trustworthy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a credible alternative" is a noun phrase used to describe a believable and trustworthy option or substitute. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. Its neutrality allows for broad application, while related phrases like "a viable substitute" and "a realistic option" offer subtle shifts in emphasis. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly establishes the original option and that any claims of credibility are well-supported. Avoiding overstatement and providing concrete evidence strengthens its impact. This analysis provides a robust understanding of the phrase's usage, linguistic properties, and practical application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a viable substitute

Focuses on the practicality and workability of the alternative.

a realistic option

Emphasizes the feasibility and grounded nature of the choice.

a trustworthy option

Highlights the reliability and dependability of the alternative.

a convincing substitute

Highlights the persuasive aspect, as the alternative can take someone's place in a way that convinces people it's fine to do so.

a dependable substitute

Focuses on the ability of the alternative to consistently perform its function.

a plausible substitute

Underscores the believability and reasonableness of the substitute.

a genuine substitute

Emphasizes the authenticity and lack of artificiality of the substitute.

a valid option

Suggests that the option is legitimate and acceptable.

a sound choice

Highlights the wisdom and good judgment behind the selection.

a solid option

Focuses on the strength and reliability of the option.

FAQs

How can I use "a credible alternative" in a sentence?

Use "a credible alternative" when you want to indicate that there is a believable and trustworthy option that can replace another. For instance: "The company needed "a credible alternative" to fossil fuels".

What's the difference between "a credible alternative" and "a plausible alternative"?

"A credible alternative" suggests that the option is believable and trustworthy, whereas "a plausible alternative" implies that it's seemingly reasonable or possible, but not necessarily proven.

What are some synonyms for "a credible alternative"?

Synonyms include "a viable substitute", "a realistic option", or "a trustworthy option", each emphasizing different aspects of the alternative.

When should I use "a credible alternative" instead of "a possible solution"?

Use "a credible alternative" when you want to emphasize that the option isn't just possible, but also believable and reliable. "A possible solution" simply indicates a potential answer, without confirming its trustworthiness.