an alternative is to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an alternative is to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting a different option or solution to a problem or situation. Example: "If the current plan doesn't work, an alternative is to consider a different approach that may yield better results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But an alternative is to use solitons.

The Economist

If your family lacks clout, an alternative is to attach yourself to a well-placed patron.

The Economist

If, like Tiger, you have considerable means, an alternative is to buy a bigger place.

Forbes

Also an alternative is to either just hang up, or say "Sorry Wrong Number".

WikiHow

However, an alternative is to sew the dust ruffle directly to the fitted sheet.

WikiHow

An alternative is to use an instrumental variables approach.

IZA Journal of Migration

An alternative is to use an attractor state.

BMC Genomics

An alternative is to choose an egg from the shelter.

WikiHow

An alternative is to use a custodial service.

Forbes

An alternative is to take a short trip from Darjeeling or one of its many stations.

Huffington Post

An alternative is to use a perspective shadow.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an alternative is to" when presenting a clear, viable option, especially after discussing an initial plan or problem. This helps create a balanced and solution-oriented tone.

Common error

Avoid constructions that weaken the impact of your suggestion. For instance, instead of "An alternative is for the report to be submitted early", use "An alternative is to submit the report early" for a more direct and effective statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an alternative is to" functions as an introductory phrase that signals the presentation of a different option, method, or course of action. It commonly acts as a connector, guiding the reader or listener towards a new possibility following an initial statement or problem. As Ludwig AI suggests, it presents another solution to a problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an alternative is to" serves as a versatile phrase for introducing different options or solutions across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage, supported by numerous examples from news, wiki, and scientific sources. While adaptable, maintaining a clear and direct tone ensures effective communication. Recognizing potential pitfalls like overuse of passive voice and being mindful of register ensures impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

another option is to

Replaces "alternative" with "option", offering a direct synonym and maintaining the same structure.

another possibility is to

Substitutes "alternative" with "possibility", focusing on potential solutions.

you could also consider

Offers a more suggestive and less direct way to introduce an alternative.

a different approach involves

Emphasizes the change in method or strategy.

instead, one might

Presents a contrasting action or choice in a slightly more formal tone.

on the other hand, consider

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint or action for consideration.

conversely, one can

Highlights an opposite or alternative action.

as a substitute, try

Suggests a direct replacement or substitution.

in lieu of that, one may

Formally proposes a replacement option.

failing that, you might

Suggests an option to be considered if the primary one does not succeed.

FAQs

How do I use "an alternative is to" in a sentence?

Use "an alternative is to" to introduce another option or course of action. For instance, "If the weather is bad, "an alternative is to" visit the museum instead of going to the park."

What's a more formal way to say "an alternative is to"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "another option is to", or "a different approach involves".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "an alternative is to"?

You can use alternatives like "another possibility is to", "you could also consider", or "instead, one might" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "an alternative is to" and "the alternative is to"?

"An alternative is to" suggests one of several options. "The alternative is to" suggests there's a specific, perhaps previously mentioned, alternative.