looking for alternative solutions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking for alternative solutions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the search for different options or approaches to solve a problem or challenge. Example: "In light of the recent challenges we faced, we are looking for alternative solutions to improve our workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Sales data showed that the day before Thanksgiving is "one of our busiest days of the year," ranking with Super Bowl Sunday and Halloween, Mr. Kane said, as people getting ready for holiday meals, travel and shopping are "looking for alternative solutions for dinner on Wednesday night".

The New York Times

Even the feeling or inkling of being ignored can set customers into a rage; and worse, have them looking for alternative solutions to yours".

Huffington Post

WASHINGTON – International organizations working to mitigate the devastating famine conditions in Somalia are actively looking for alternative solutions to work around rigid American restrictions on delivering funds to terrorist organizations, several officials said Thursday.

Huffington Post

We are looking for alternative solutions to family reunification," he added.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The use of anytime algorithms allows one to evaluate the opportunity of looking for alternative solution paths by generating small variations of robot motions affecting both its geometrical path and its scheduled velocity.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

"Pleyel will look for alternative solutions," the statement said.

The New York Times

However, the appeals judges said the trial judges could look for alternative solutions, like changing the schedule or adjourning the trial temporarily.

The New York Times

They will look for alternative solutions".

Forbes

"Moreover, jointly with the Ramón y Cajal investigators, we are going to look for alternative solutions," she writes, such as promoting opportunities in R&D departments in companies.

Science Magazine

And if there are more apps — or would-be apps in development — that might find themselves blocked in future, will we see companies begin to look for alternative solutions?

TechCrunch

187 201 is an indirect demonstration that false belief cannot be explained by empiricism (whether this means a developed philosophical theory, or the instinctive empiricism of some people's common sense), then it is likely that the First Puzzle states the basic difficulty for empiricism, to which the other four Puzzles look for alternative solutions.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking for alternative solutions", ensure that the context clearly indicates the problem you are trying to solve. This adds clarity and purpose to your statement.

Common error

While "looking for alternative solutions" is acceptable, avoid overuse in very formal writing. Consider stronger, more precise verbs to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking for alternative solutions" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of searching for different methods or approaches. According to Ludwig, it is a perfectly usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looking for alternative solutions" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe the act of seeking different methods or approaches. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It is most frequently found in news, scientific, and business contexts, demonstrating its versatility. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies the problem you are trying to address. In more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "seeking alternative approaches" or "exploring different solutions".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Looking at other alternatives

This simply uses the word alternative again, and is a more direct, less formal restatement.

Seeking alternative approaches

Focuses on the method or process rather than the end result.

Finding alternative methods

Stresses the discovery of varied techniques.

Exploring different solutions

Emphasizes the act of investigation and discovery of solutions.

Identifying alternative options

Focuses on the recognition and selection of different choices.

Investigating alternative routes

Suggests a change in direction or path to achieve the same goal.

Discovering alternative means

Highlights the uncovering of different resources or tools.

Considering other possibilities

Highlights the evaluation of multiple options.

Searching for varied strategies

Emphasizes the search for a range of strategic approaches.

Pursuing different avenues

Implies active effort in exploring various opportunities.

FAQs

How can I use "looking for alternative solutions" in a sentence?

You can use "looking for alternative solutions" to express the need to find different methods or approaches to solve a problem. For example: "The team is "looking for alternative solutions" to reduce production costs."

What's a more formal way to say "looking for alternative solutions"?

In more formal contexts, you might consider phrases like "seeking alternative approaches", "exploring different solutions", or "investigating alternative routes".

Is it redundant to say "alternative solutions"?

While "solutions" inherently imply addressing a problem, using "alternative" emphasizes that you are seeking different or non-standard methods. It's generally acceptable unless extreme brevity is required.

What are some situations where you'd be "looking for alternative solutions"?

You might be "looking for alternative solutions" when facing technical challenges, budget constraints, or when existing methods are ineffective.