a plausible alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plausible alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing options or solutions that are reasonable and believable in a given context. Example: "While the initial plan was to expand the project, a plausible alternative would be to focus on improving the existing infrastructure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a plausible alternative to irrationality.

The New York Times

And she has not made herself a plausible alternative to Mr. Vajpayee.

The New York Times

Nothing in Shell's current strategy suggests Van Beurden is going to present a plausible alternative.

The Guardian

But Britain also needs a Labour party that can provide a plausible alternative government.

The Guardian - Opinion

The choice seemed sound: gritty realism would be a plausible alternative to Sellars's impassioned surrealism.

The New Yorker

It has yet to pose as a plausible alternative to Mr Kabila.

The Economist

If they can articulate a plausible alternative, they should find a receptive public.

The Economist

Some day, his party may look like a plausible alternative government.

The Economist

In it, he arguestudentsss the nareon, college students are clamorindoctrinated campuses to divest from fossil fuel . . .

The New Yorker

"Gingrich only looks like a plausible alternative to Romney after you've gone through this carnival of implausible nominees," says Lizza.

The New Yorker

When that point comes, Labour will need to look like a plausible alternative offering a coherent and attractive prospectus.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a plausible alternative", ensure you articulate why it's both likely and beneficial compared to the existing situation or proposed solution. Provide supporting evidence or logical reasoning to strengthen its credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting something as "a plausible alternative" without providing any justification or evidence. Overstating its plausibility can undermine your argument if it lacks a solid foundation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plausible alternative" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it introduces a substitute, plan, or strategy deemed believable and reasonable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plausible alternative" is a frequently used phrase for introducing a believable and reasonable option. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It appears most often in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, make sure to provide supporting evidence to bolster its credibility. Alternative phrases include "a credible substitute" or "a reasonable option".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a credible substitute

Emphasizes the believability and reliability of the replacement.

a believable option

Highlights the capacity to be accepted or considered true.

a reasonable option

Focuses on the logical and sensible nature of the choice.

a viable solution

Stresses the practicality and workability of the solution.

a tenable replacement

Underscores the defensibility and sustainability of the replacement.

a convincing surrogate

Highlights the persuasiveness and effectiveness of the substitute.

a feasible solution

Emphasizes the attainability and possibility of the solution.

a probable recourse

Stresses the likelihood and possibility of turning to that recourse.

a justifiable method

Focuses on the defensible and acceptable aspect of the method.

a supportable tactic

Highlights the defensibility and maintainability of the tactic.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plausible alternative" to introduce a solution or option that is both believable and reasonable. For example, "If the initial plan fails, we need to have "a plausible alternative" ready."

What phrases are similar to "a plausible alternative"?

Similar phrases include "a credible substitute", "a reasonable option", or "a viable solution". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to suggest "a plausible alternative"?

It's appropriate to suggest "a plausible alternative" when the current plan is failing, when exploring different options, or when providing a backup strategy. Always ensure the alternative is well-reasoned and supported by evidence.

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

"A plausible alternative" suggests a believable and reasonable option, while "a remarkable alternative" implies something noteworthy or exceptional. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize believability or distinctiveness.