an adequate alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an adequate alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing options or substitutes that are sufficient or acceptable in a given context. Example: "While the original plan was ideal, we need to find an adequate alternative that meets our requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They do not present an adequate alternative to litigation.

The New York Times

Still, the optional 6-speed automatic is an adequate alternative.

The New York Times

Volunteers and grassroots organisations say these children have not been offered an adequate alternative.

The Guardian

The Supreme Court has ruled that habeas corpus can be eliminated if an adequate alternative process is provided.

The New York Times

But exiled community figures living in Britain say the money can never be an adequate alternative to the right to live in their homeland.

The Guardian

Mr. Haq's death is another setback for the American antiterrorism campaign, which has yet to provide Afghanistan's disaffected with an adequate alternative.

The New York Times

Now... JUSTICE O'CONNOR -- So in your view does this case boil down, as I take it the Solicitor General also expresses, the notion that we have to determine whether section 3501 is an adequate alternative?

The New York Times

Any fear she might fail the test of offering the groups of teens an adequate alternative to second stage headliners Mogwai, who've attracted a crowd that appears to be the parents, is dispelled: not everything she does is great, but it's a vibrant pop show, and she adds a welcome dollop of personality.

The Guardian

"We have concluded that providing a means for controlling or extinguishing a fire — such as stopping the flow of fluids, shutting down equipment, or fireproof equipment" was an "adequate alternative to requiring the flight or cabin crew to use extinguishing agents," the agency said in its 2006 decision about the Airbus A380.

The New York Times

It was considered to be the fastest charging method, and therefore, an adequate alternative to refuelling.

European Transport Research Review

These methods are an adequate alternative to the process of selection/identification of new bioactive compounds.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "an adequate alternative", clearly explain why it is sufficient for the intended purpose. Provide supporting evidence or reasoning to demonstrate its suitability.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "an adequate alternative" without providing a rationale. Always explain why it meets the necessary requirements or standards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an adequate alternative" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, specifying a substitute or option that meets the minimum requirements or standards. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an adequate alternative" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that describes a substitute or option sufficient to meet the necessary requirements. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. While it implies that the option is satisfactory, it does not necessarily indicate the best possible choice. When using this phrase, it's important to justify why the alternative is considered adequate, providing rationale and supporting evidence to demonstrate its suitability. Consider using alternatives such as "a satisfactory substitute" or "a viable option" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a satisfactory substitute

Focuses on the satisfactory nature of the replacement.

a sufficient replacement

Emphasizes the sufficiency of the replacement to meet the required needs.

a viable option

Highlights the feasibility and practicality of the choice.

a suitable solution

Points out the appropriateness of the solution in a given context.

an acceptable substitute

Indicates the replacement is deemed acceptable, though perhaps not ideal.

a fitting replacement

Suggests the replacement is particularly well-suited or appropriate.

a proper substitute

Highlights the correctness or suitability of the substitute.

an effective solution

Stresses the effectiveness of the solution in addressing the problem.

a working solution

Implies that the solution is practical and functional.

a good enough alternative

Emphasizes that while not perfect, the alternative is satisfactory for the purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "an adequate alternative" in a sentence?

You can use "an adequate alternative" to describe a substitute or option that is sufficient or acceptable. For example, "While the original plan was ideal, we need to find "an adequate alternative" that meets our requirements."

What are some alternatives to saying "an adequate alternative"?

You can use alternatives like "a satisfactory substitute", "a viable option", or "a suitable solution" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "an adequate alternative"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that a replacement or different option is sufficient to meet the needs or requirements, even if it is not the ideal or preferred choice. Ensure you justify why the alternative is considered adequate.

Is there a difference between "an adequate alternative" and "the best alternative"?

Yes, "an adequate alternative" implies that the option is sufficient but not necessarily the best. "The best alternative", on the other hand, suggests it's the most optimal choice among available options.