an alternative type of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an alternative type of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing different options or categories within a specific context or subject matter. Example: "We are exploring an alternative type of energy source that is more sustainable and environmentally friendly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Lambert became headteacher at Dartington Hall, which was an alternative type of boarding school, in 1969.

The Guardian

The two babies who have been infected are being treated with antibiotics and we are using an alternative type of parenteral nutrition".

The Guardian

"We discussed it briefly, and he initially said, 'We must find an alternative type of membership, they can never be full members'," Mr Moller told his boss.

The Economist

Yet it's hard to deny that the most intriguing outsider art often looks like the product of an alternative type of consciousness — one far less beholden to prevailing social and intellectual conventions and more attuned to intuitive, emotional and visionary impulses.

The New York Times - Arts

But suddenly an alternative type of schooling appears in the intriguing form of David Peter Sarsgaardd), a man twice her age who charms Jenny into accepting a lift in his sleek Bristol as she waits for the bus one rain-sodden afternoon.

The New York Times

The next step is to treat HIT using an alternative type of anticoagulant.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Following their idea, we propose an alternative type of the modified index.

Health Economics Review

We also propose an alternative type of the modified measure by introducing the permanent income hypothesis.

Health Economics Review

Yackanich pitched it as an alternative type of pay wall, where the reader doesn't actually have to pay.

TechCrunch

We also propose a measure based upon the permanent income hypothesis as an alternative type of the modified measure.

Health Economics Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He zeroed in on three goals on Tuesday: "closing the gap" on making money from search, increasing the company's lead in display advertising, and seizing an early opportunity in alternative types of search, including video and mobile.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing options, use "an alternative type of" to clearly indicate a different category or method within a specific field. This helps avoid ambiguity and provides clarity in technical or detailed writing.

Common error

Avoid using "an alternative type of" when simply referring to a variation within the same category. Instead, reserve it for instances where the subject represents a fundamentally different approach or kind.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an alternative type of" functions as a modifier, specifically acting as a determiner that introduces a noun or noun phrase. It indicates that the noun it modifies is a different kind or category from something previously mentioned or generally understood. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase as correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

36%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an alternative type of" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce a different category or method, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in scientific and news media contexts, this phrase serves to highlight a distinct contrast or deviation from the norm. While suitable for various registers, it is most effective when emphasizing a clear categorical difference. By understanding its purpose and context, writers can accurately convey distinctions and innovative approaches in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a different kind of

Uses 'different' instead of 'alternative' and 'kind' instead of 'type', offering a simpler phrasing.

another form of

Replaces 'type' with 'form', emphasizing the structure or arrangement rather than the category.

an alternate version of

Substitutes 'type' with 'version', suggesting a modified or different edition.

a substitute for

Focuses on replacement or acting in place of something else, highlighting the functional aspect.

an innovative approach to

Emphasizes the novelty and method, shifting the focus to a creative or new technique.

a non-traditional method of

Highlights the deviation from conventional methods, adding emphasis on unconventionality.

a unique brand of

Suggests distinctiveness and originality, focusing on the specific qualities that set it apart.

a modified version of

Indicates an alteration or adjustment to an existing form, highlighting the modification aspect.

a replacement strategy for

Highlights the strategic aspect of using a substitute in order to achieve the same goals.

a novel approach to

Focuses on newness and originality in the method being used.

FAQs

How can I use "an alternative type of" in a sentence?

Use "an alternative type of" to introduce a different category or method from what's typically used or expected. For instance: "We are exploring "an alternative type of energy" to reduce our carbon footprint."

What phrases are similar to "an alternative type of"?

Similar phrases include "a different kind of", "another form of", or "an alternate version of". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "an alternative type of" instead of "another"?

"An alternative type of" implies a more distinct difference or categorized separation than simply using "another". Use "an alternative type of" when the options belong to different classes or systems; use "another" when they are similar but not the same.

Is "an alternative type of" formal or informal?

The phrase "an alternative type of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its versatility makes it appropriate for academic papers, news articles, and casual conversations alike.