alternates between

USAGE SUMMARY

'alternate between' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where two or more options or choices switch back and forth in a regular pattern. For example, "Jonathan alternates between playing basketball and soccer every weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(He alternates between the two).

The New York Times

He alternates between manic and dignified.

The New York Times - Arts

The production alternates between the two lockers.

The New York Times

Holter alternates between speaking, singing, and whispering.

The New Yorker

He alternates between self-laceration and cockiness.

The New York Times - Books

Wilson's tone alternates between serious and playful.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Smith alternates between Renko and other stories.

The New York Times

A counterparty who alternates between conciliation and provocation.

Harvard Business Review

King's narrator, George Cautley, alternates between two stories.

The New York Times - Books

Most of the book alternates between Ryan and Alisha's viewpoints.

The Guardian

Annie Proulx alternates between writing short stories and writing novels.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "alternates between", ensure that the subjects being alternated are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The presentation alternates between data analysis and case studies" is clearer than "The presentation alternates."

Common error

Avoid using "alternates between" when there are more than two options, as it implies only two states are involved. If multiple options exist, consider using "varies among" or "cycles through" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alternates between" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a recurring change or switch between two defined options or states. It describes a pattern of shifting back and forth, as shown by Ludwig examples, "He alternates between self-laceration and cockiness."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alternates between" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase to describe a recurring pattern of change or switching between two distinct options or states. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, from news and media to academic writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key, ensuring that the two options being alternated are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. While "alternates between" is specifically for two options, remember to use alternative phrases like "varies among" or cycles through" when more than two options exist. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "alternates between" to convey the intended meaning with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

switches between

Emphasizes a quick or abrupt change from one thing to another.

shifts between

Focuses on a change in position or state rather than a scheduled or regular change.

moves between

Describes a more general movement or transition between different places or states.

oscillates between

Suggests a regular and continuous movement back and forth, often used in a more technical or scientific context.

cycles between

Suggests a recurring pattern or sequence of changes.

fluctuates between

Implies irregular variations between different states or levels.

interchanges between

Highlights the act of mutually exchanging one thing for another.

transitions between

Focuses on the process of changing from one state or condition to another.

varies between

Indicates a range of differences rather than a direct switch.

revolves around

Suggests central point between different aspects.

FAQs

How do I use "alternates between" in a sentence?

Use "alternates between" to describe something that regularly switches between two options. For example, "The weather "alternates between sun and rain"."

What can I say instead of "alternates between"?

You can use alternatives like "shifts between", "switches between", or "varies between" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'alternate among' instead of "alternates between"?

While "alternates between" is used for two options, "alternate among" is more appropriate when there are three or more options. However, you can use something like "varies among" to express three or more options.

What's the difference between "alternates between" and "oscillates between"?

"Alternates between" generally describes any switching between two things, whereas "oscillates between" implies a regular and rhythmic movement or fluctuation between two states.