the alternative is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the alternative is" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to present another option or choice in a sentence, usually after discussing a previous option or choice. Example: "We can either take the bus or walk to the restaurant. The alternative is to call a taxi if we are running late."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The alternative is grim.

The New Yorker

The alternative is bleak.

The Economist

"The alternative is finality".

Independent

The alternative is stalemate.

The Economist

The alternative is fearsome.

The Economist

The alternative is costly redundancy.

The Economist

The alternative is Rex Grossman.

The New York Times

But the alternative is worse.

The New York Times

A. The alternative is death.

The New York Times - Science

Because the alternative is worse.

The New York Times

The alternative is fiscal disaster.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the alternative is" to clearly present consequences or options, especially when emphasizing the less desirable outcome of not choosing the initial suggestion.

Common error

Avoid using "the alternative is" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Vary your sentence structure by using alternatives like "otherwise", "instead", or explaining the consequences directly without explicitly stating "the alternative is" to improve readability and flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the alternative is" functions as a transitional phrase introducing a different option or the consequence of not choosing a previously stated action. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the alternative is" is a versatile phrase used to present a different option or consequence, often implying a less desirable outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves to highlight choices and their potential results, maintaining a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to use it judiciously and consider alternative phrases to avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the other option is

Replaces "alternative" with "option", focusing on choice rather than potential negative outcomes.

another possibility is

Emphasizes the existence of a different, viable possibility.

the other choice is

Similar to 'the other option is', but highlights the act of choosing.

failing that

Introduces an alternative after implying the failure of a prior attempt.

otherwise

Offers a straightforward conditional statement, implying a negative consequence if the initial condition is not met.

the consequence is

Shifts focus to the result or outcome of not choosing the first option.

the result is

Similar to 'the consequence is', highlighting the outcome.

the fall back is

Suggests a backup plan or a less desirable alternative.

instead

Offers a simple substitution of one option for another.

on the flip side

Highlights the opposite or contrasting viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I use "the alternative is" in a sentence?

Use "the alternative is" to introduce a different option or the consequence of not choosing a previously mentioned action. For example, "We could invest in new equipment; "the alternative is" to continue with outdated technology".

What can I say instead of "the alternative is"?

You can use alternatives like "another option is", "otherwise", or "failing that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "the alternative is" or "an alternative is"?

"The alternative is" implies a specific, previously discussed alternative. "An alternative is" suggests one of several possible options. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the context.

What's the difference between "the alternative is" and "the other option is"?

While similar, "the alternative is" often carries a stronger implication of consequence or a less desirable outcome if the first option isn't chosen. "The other option is" is a more neutral presentation of another choice.