an alternative route

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an alternative route" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing different paths or options to achieve a goal or reach a destination. Example: "Due to the road closure, we will need to take an alternative route to get to the conference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is an alternative route.

Independent

Better to bike back using an alternative route.

The Guardian - Travel

"Better if a rope bridge offers an alternative route".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I realised they offered to me an alternative route.

The Guardian - Books

Tony was, however, aware he had missed an alternative route.

The Guardian

He paints an alternative route that incorporates nine different lines.

The New York Times - Books

Should the agency not offer an alternative route?

Independent

But now an alternative route leads straight to Crown Heights, Brooklyn, hour after hour after hour.

The New York Times - Arts

The escorts usually have an alternative route prepared, he said -- except when an American official comes.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, the site's technology can't yet take that information and give you an alternative route.

The New York Times - Travel

Taking an alternative route to avoid passing the store would be a better strategy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an alternative route" in writing, ensure that the context clearly explains why the alternative is being considered (e.g., due to obstacles, preferences, or new information).

Common error

Avoid using "an alternative route" when a simple synonym like "option" or "choice" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when describing a significant shift in approach or direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an alternative route" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it's a valid and usable phrase. It identifies a different method or path to achieve a particular outcome. The examples show its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an alternative route" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a different path, method, or strategy for achieving a goal or overcoming an obstacle. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and general information sources. When considering the use of "an alternative route", ensure it's appropriate for the context and that a simpler synonym wouldn't suffice. Remember, according to Ludwig, the phrase is most effective when a significant shift in approach is being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an alternate plan

Highlights the availability of a backup strategy.

a detour

Describes a temporary change in direction.

a different course of action

Emphasizes a change in strategy or approach.

a secondary approach

Focuses on the presence of a backup method.

another avenue

Suggests a different method or channel for achieving something.

a substitute itinerary

Specifically refers to a replacement travel plan.

a workaround solution

Implies finding a way to overcome an obstacle.

an offshoot

Describes something that has branched off of a standard plan.

an escape

Highlights a way out of a difficult situation.

a different tack

Describes another way to handle a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "an alternative route" to describe a different way of achieving a goal or reaching a destination. For example, "Due to the traffic jam, we had to find "an alternative route" to the airport".

What's the difference between "an alternative route" and "a detour"?

"An alternative route" generally refers to a completely different path or method, while "a detour" suggests a temporary deviation from the original path, usually to avoid an obstacle.

What can I say instead of "an alternative route"?

You can use alternatives like "a different approach", "an alternate plan", or "another avenue" depending on the specific context.

Is "alternate route" or "alternative route" more correct?

Both "alternate route" and ""an alternative route"" are grammatically correct, but "alternative" is generally more formal and widely used. "Alternate" can sometimes imply a route used in turns or at different times.