sole alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sole alternative" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the only option available in a given situation. An example is: "The sole alternative to the proposed plan is to abandon the project entirely." Alternative expressions include "only option" and "exclusive choice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

This hollow victory may be the sole alternative for condominium owners, Ms. Weiss said.

The New York Times

Most apologists compare it with America's insurance-based health service, as if that were the sole alternative.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some parents of children damaged by drugs, drinking, depression or divorce say Wwasps programs were their sole alternative.

The New York Times

Once a third way between capitalism and Communism, Fascism has become, with Communism's fall, the sole alternative to capitalism, he argues.

The New York Times

The Vermont senator faces a far different contest than in 2016, when he was the sole alternative for those dissatisfied with Hillary Clinton.

The Washington Post

Nhial Bol, editor of The Citizen, a leading newspaper, started a television channel as the sole alternative to the state broadcaster after independence from Sudan.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Overall, such risks would have to be addressed if these techniques are to be considered sole alternatives to captive-breeding in endangered species restoration.

Evolutionary Applications

However, manufacturers have developed rubber-sole alternatives that have become increasingly popular with fly fishermen.

The New York Times - Science

Once again, Doña Marta would have to resort to the only alternative means of communication available in a town where the sole media outlet is run by the military: notices printed on paper that wilt in the humidity.

Vice

Inarguably, lignocellulosic biofuel represents a renewable, sustainable, and the sole foreseeable alternative energy source to transportation fuels.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

The former California Governor, despite his new status as the sole Clinton alternative, still has more critics than friends in his own party.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sole alternative" when you want to emphasize that there is truly only one option available, leaving no room for other possibilities. This can add a sense of urgency or finality to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "sole alternative" when there are actually other viable options. This can undermine your credibility and make your argument seem less objective. Ensure that you have thoroughly considered all other possibilities before asserting that only one alternative exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sole alternative" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, confirming that it acts as the identified option when there are no other viable choices.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sole alternative" denotes the existence of only one option or solution. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and frequently used to emphasize the absence of other choices. While most common in news and media, the phrase also appears in scientific and business contexts. Related phrases include "only option" and "single possibility". When using "sole alternative", ensure that you have indeed considered all other options to avoid undermining your argument. Its effective use can add a sense of finality to your statement, drawing attention to the singular path forward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only option

Replaces "alternative" with "option" for a simpler expression.

only choice

Substitutes "alternative" with "choice", focusing on the decision aspect.

single possibility

Emphasizes the lack of multiple options.

one and only option

Adds emphasis to the exclusivity of the choice.

sole remaining option

Specifies it's the last available from a list of possibilities.

last resort

Implies that other options have been exhausted.

only recourse

Highlights that there's no other action to take.

ultimate fallback

Suggests that this is the final backup plan.

exclusive avenue

Highlights it is the only path or way to proceed.

unique solution

Suggests this is the only solution available to resolve the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "sole alternative" in a sentence?

You can use "sole alternative" to indicate that there is only one option or solution available. For example, "With the factory closing, emigration was the "sole alternative" for many families."

What are some similar phrases to "sole alternative"?

Alternatives to "sole alternative" include "only option", "only choice", or "single possibility". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "the only sole alternative"?

Yes, using "the only sole alternative" is redundant. The word "sole" already implies that it is the only one, so adding "only" is unnecessary and grammatically awkward.

What's the difference between "sole alternative" and "best alternative"?

"Sole alternative" indicates that there is only one option, while "best alternative" implies there are multiple options, and one is superior to the others. The phrases are used in different contexts based on the availability of choices.