alternative clause

USAGE SUMMARY

"alternative clause" is a legitimate phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to two or more clauses that provide alternatives to each other. For example, "She can either go to the store or stay home; that's her alternative clause."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But this proposal was defeated, and instead the Lib Dems voted, by 230 votes to 183, for an alternative clause saying nuclear power could play "a limited role in electricity supply" provided concerns about safety, cost and waste are met and provided there is no public subsidy for new build.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

FWC has provided an alternative model clause on which it will take submissions until 1 May.

The Guardian

With respect to the disclosures required by section 1693c a)(3) and (4) of this title, the Bureau shall take account of variations in the services and charges under different electronic fund transfer systems and, as appropriate, shall issue alternative model clauses for disclosure of these differing account terms.

Cornell University

To include a provision for payment of attorneys fees, including language such as: "The winning party has the right to collect from the other party its reasonable costs and attorney's fees incurred in enforcing this Agreement".. Consider adding an alternative dispute resolution clause.

WikiHow

The proposed method is completely congruous with the alternative method listed in clause 17.5.3 of ACI 318-95.

Cement and Concrete Composites

If the contract is for a small business, consider adding an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) clause.

WikiHow

More and more companies are inserting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) clauses in their contracts with customers and vendors, and even in agreements with their own employees.

Harvard University

Aegina, which was attacked and besieged in the same year, was reduced in the following year and forced to pay tribute, though some vague undertaking about autonomy may have been made; the alternative is to suppose a special clause about Aeginetan autonomy, or even a general autonomy clause, in the peace of 446, which ended the war.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nor does the clause as to alternatives apply to the Alexandria ordinance.

Cornell University

Yes, the clause says the other alternative is to wipe out the second's value entirely, but given a choice, the banks would be extremely unlikely to do that.

The New York Times

The WP29 is also assessing the legality of the alternative data transfer mechanisms, including model clauses, but has previously said companies can use them in the interim, while work to agree the Privacy Shield continues.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting contracts, use the phrase "alternative clause" to clearly indicate a provision that offers a different course of action or condition compared to the primary clause. This reduces ambiguity and ensures that all parties understand the options available.

Common error

Avoid using "alternative clause" when you mean a clause that is unclear or open to multiple interpretations. An alternative clause offers a specific different option, whereas an ambiguous clause lacks clarity. Ensure your wording is precise to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alternative clause" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a specific section within a legal document or agreement that presents an alternative course of action or condition. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is valid and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

22%

Academia

22%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "alternative clause" is a grammatically correct and valid phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, used to denote a provision offering a different course of action. It is most commonly found in legal, academic, and business contexts where precision and clarity are paramount. When using this phrase, ensure that the alternative being presented is clearly defined and distinct. While it may not be as common as other legal terms, understanding its usage can help you write more precise and effective contracts and legal documents.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fallback provision

Specifies that the provision comes into effect when the primary approach fails

alternate provision

Focuses on the 'provision' aspect, implying a specific condition or stipulation as an alternative.

secondary condition

Highlights that the condition only applies secondarily.

substitute clause

Emphasizes the replacement aspect, suggesting a direct substitution of one clause for another.

alternate wording

Focuses specifically on the variance in how something is expressed.

replacement term

Highlights that the alternative is a specific term within the larger agreement.

optional condition

Focuses on the aspect of choice, where the condition is not mandatory.

standby agreement

Highlights the availability of an alternative in case the original clause fails.

backup plan

Emphasizes the contingency aspect, suggesting a plan B in case the primary approach is not viable.

contingency clause

Highlights the element of risk, suggesting a clause that comes into play if a certain risk is triggered.

FAQs

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

You can use "alternative clause" to describe a provision that offers a different course of action. For example, "The contract includes an "alternative clause" that outlines the procedure if the primary method fails."

What is a good synonym for "alternative clause"?

A good synonym for "alternative clause" is "alternate provision", which also refers to a different condition or stipulation.

What's the difference between "alternative clause" and "option clause"?

An "alternative clause" presents a different path or condition, whereas an "option clause" gives someone the right, but not the obligation, to take a particular action.

When should I use "alternative clause" in legal writing?

Use "alternative clause" when drafting legal documents to provide clear and distinct options, ensuring that all parties are aware of the various potential outcomes or conditions. This promotes transparency and reduces the likelihood of disputes.