as an alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The term 'as an alternative' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an option that is different from the one already mentioned. For example, "Instead of building a new store in the city centre, we could look into leasing a space in a retail park as an alternative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

June has been mentioned as an alternative.

The Economist

As an alternative, travelers could use passports.

The New York Times

He recommended open shelters as an alternative.

The Guardian

How about this as an alternative?

The Guardian

Science soon beckoned as an alternative.

The New York Times - Science

(2) Allowed as an alternative under § 153.10.

Cornell University

'Black liquor' as an alternative fuel?

The Washington Post

Voice interfaces exist as an alternative.

Accident Analysis & Prevention

He rejected the notion of turmeric as an alternative medicine.

The New York Times - Health

Consider too what she proposes as an alternative structure.

The Guardian

They have proposed the Constitutional Equality Amendment as an alternative.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as an alternative", ensure it clearly contrasts with the previously mentioned option to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "as an alternative" repeatedly within a short passage; vary your language with synonyms like "instead" or "alternatively" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an alternative" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a different option or course of action. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use across various contexts, supporting its grammatical correctness and versatility. It usually sets up contrasting proposals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

22%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as an alternative" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce different options or approaches. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Scientific articles, and Wiki content. While synonyms like "instead" and "alternatively" exist, "as an alternative" offers a clear and direct way to present an alternative choice. When using this phrase, ensure it is clear which option it contrasts with and avoid overuse in close proximity to maintain clarity and engagement in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as another option

Focuses specifically on presenting another choice, emphasizing the optional nature.

instead

A more concise way to indicate a substitution of one thing for another.

alternatively

Adverbial form, indicating a different approach or possibility.

as a substitute

Highlights the act of replacing something with something else.

in lieu of

A more formal way of saying "instead of", often used in legal or official contexts.

as a different course of action

Emphasizes a change in strategy or approach.

as a workaround

Suggests a solution to circumvent a problem or limitation.

as a fallback

Implies a secondary option to be used if the primary one fails.

on the other hand

Introduces a contrasting perspective or option.

by way of another possibility

A more elaborate expression to introduce a different potential outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "as an alternative" to introduce a different option or approach. For example, "Instead of driving, you could take the train "as an alternative"".

What are some phrases similar to "as an alternative"?

Similar phrases include "instead", "alternatively", or "as a substitute".

Is it correct to say "as an alternative" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "as an alternative" is correct and commonly used. Its suitability depends on context; synonyms may be more appropriate in some situations.

What is the difference between "as an alternative" and "alternatively"?

"As an alternative" functions as a prepositional phrase, introducing a different option, while "alternatively" is an adverb modifying the verb. For example, "We could drive, or, "alternatively", we could fly".