a workable alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a workable alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing options or solutions that are practical and feasible in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the initial proposal, we decided to explore a workable alternative that would better meet our budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

And he doesn't offer a workable alternative.

The New York Times

Maybe one of them provides a workable alternative to Obamacare.

The New Yorker

Mr. Platt deserves praise for providing a workable alternative.

The New York Times - Arts

Trying different health products including weight gain teas to stay healthy might be a workable alternative.

Harvard University

Mr. Mugler has hit upon a workable alternative to his once white-hot predatory woman.

The New York Times - Style

Fourth: hardest of all, parliament must come up with a workable alternative to May's deal.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

What's remarkable about that is that this was all based on the presumption that freshwater logic would provide a plausible, workable alternative to Keynes – a presumption that was not borne out by anything that had happened in the 1970s.

The New York Times

None of [the opponents] – not the critics, not scientists, not politicians – have come up with a single workable alternative to the cull which would give us the positive impact we need right now". The debate had been granted after more than 150,000 people signed an official government e-petition – an innovation that had been launched by Heath.

The Guardian

Populists like Elizabeth Warren, former FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair, and even Larry Summers (who comes off as a major foil of Geithner in inter-office spats) could backseat-drive, but they didn't have a credible workable alternative.

Vice

Populists like Elizabeth Warren, former FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair, and even Larry Summers (who comes off as a major foil of Geithner in inter-office spats) could backseat-drive, but they didn't have a credible workable alternative.

Vice

"I believe the rules will provide an appropriate and workable alternative to credit ratings," Mary L. Schapiro, the agency's chairwoman, said in a statement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When proposing "a workable alternative", ensure you can clearly articulate its advantages and feasibility compared to the original plan or approach.

Common error

Don't assume that because an alternative is "workable", it is also the best possible choice. Consider whether a more innovative or ambitious solution might yield better long-term results, even if it requires more effort upfront.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a workable alternative" functions as a noun phrase, where 'workable' modifies 'alternative'. It's used to identify a solution or option that is not the first choice but is practical and can be successfully implemented, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a workable alternative" is a commonly used expression to denote a practical and feasible substitute or solution. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various contexts. Primarily found in "News & Media", it also appears in academic and scientific writing. While "a workable alternative" may not be the optimal solution, it signifies adaptability and problem-solving, making it a valuable phrase in many situations. When suggesting "a workable alternative", clearly articulate its advantages and feasibility. Be aware that the term "workable" does not always imply the 'best' solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a practical substitute

Focuses more on the practicality of the replacement.

a feasible solution

Highlights the achievability of the solution.

a viable option

Emphasizes the ability to survive or function successfully.

a realistic approach

Stresses the connection to reality and possibility.

a tenable resolution

Implies that the resolution can be defended or maintained.

a functional equivalent

Highlights the similarity in function.

an effective measure

Focuses on the success in producing a desired result.

a sound strategy

Emphasizes the reliability and reasonableness of the strategy.

a constructive method

Highlights that the method builds or improves something.

a sensible course of action

Implies the action is chosen based on good judgment.

FAQs

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

You can use "a workable alternative" to suggest a practical solution when the initial plan is not feasible. For instance, "If we can't secure funding for the main project, we need to find "a workable alternative"."

What's a good substitute for "a workable alternative"?

Depending on the context, you might use "a practical solution", "a feasible option", or "a viable substitute" as alternatives for "a workable alternative".

Is it better to say "a workable alternative" or "a working alternative"?

"A workable alternative" is generally preferred because it emphasizes the feasibility and practicality of the substitute. "A working alternative" could imply that the alternative is already in operation.

What does "workable" really mean in "a workable alternative"?

In the context of "a workable alternative", "workable" means that the proposed substitute is practical, feasible, and capable of achieving the desired outcome, even if it's not the ideal or preferred option.