viable alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "viable alternative" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe a possible option or choice that is feasible or capable of being successful. Example: After extensive research, we have determined that implementing a recycling program is a viable alternative to reducing our company's carbon footprint.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There was no viable alternative.

The New York Times

DiskCryptor is a viable alternative.

The Guardian - Tech

The American taxpayer deserves a viable alternative.

The Economist

But viable alternative measures are available.

The New York Times

Live recordings are a viable alternative.

The New York Times - Arts

Nor is the U.N. a viable alternative.

The New York Times

And there is a viable alternative.

The New York Times

Tony Abbott does not have a viable alternative.

The Guardian

Are geothermal systems a viable alternative for smaller buildings?

The New York Times

An extension may have been the president's only viable alternative.

The New York Times

"I want to have a viable alternative," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "viable alternative", ensure you clearly outline its benefits and how it addresses the limitations of the original option. Provide evidence or reasoning to support its feasibility.

Common error

Don't label an option as a "viable alternative" without thoroughly assessing its feasibility and potential drawbacks. Back up your claim with concrete data or logical reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "viable alternative" functions as a noun phrase modifier, where the adjective "viable" describes the noun "alternative". It signifies an option that is capable of succeeding or functioning. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to describe a feasible option.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "viable alternative" is a frequently used phrase denoting a feasible and practical option. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields, including news, science, and business. Its purpose is to offer a workable solution or choice, emphasizing its feasibility and potential for success. While suitable for various contexts, its analytical nature makes it particularly relevant in professional and academic settings. When using "viable alternative", ensure you provide sufficient evidence to support its viability and clearly articulate its benefits over the original option. Alternatives like "practical option" or "feasible substitute" can be used to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feasible substitute

Emphasizes the practicality and possibility of replacing something with the alternative.

practical option

Highlights the realistic and workable nature of the alternative.

workable solution

Focuses on the problem-solving aspect of the alternative, suggesting it can effectively address an issue.

realistic choice

Stresses the achievable and grounded nature of the alternative.

tenable option

Implies that the alternative is defensible and can be maintained or justified.

suitable replacement

Highlights the appropriateness of the alternative for taking the place of something else.

possible course of action

Indicates that the alternative is a potential way to proceed or act.

achievable resolution

Suggests that the alternative can realistically lead to a settlement or conclusion.

implementable strategy

Focuses on the feasibility of putting the alternative into action as a plan.

effective approach

Highlights the potential of the alternative to produce the desired result.

FAQs

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

You can use "viable alternative" to describe a feasible option or choice, such as, "After considering all options, we found that renewable energy was a "viable alternative" to fossil fuels."

What are some phrases similar to "viable alternative"?

Some similar phrases include "practical option", "feasible substitute", and "workable solution", all of which suggest a realistic and effective choice.

What makes an alternative "viable"?

An alternative is considered "viable" when it is both feasible and capable of achieving the desired outcome. It needs to be practical, realistic, and sustainable in the given context.

Is "viable alternative" a formal or informal expression?

"Viable alternative" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in professional, academic, and everyday communication to describe a realistic option.