what alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

"what alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to ask for other possible options in a given situation. For example: "What alternative do we have if this plan doesn't work out?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"What alternative do we have?

The New York Times

What alternative would you offer?

Stanford University

What alternative is left?" he asked.

The New York Times

What alternative proposal might you make?

The New York Times

What alternative water sources are available?

The Guardian

But what alternative do low-income borrowers have?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

"What... alternative to something I wanted?" she snapped back.

Independent

Next she's considering what Alternative Power might do with her car.

The New York Times - Magazine

-What alternative remedies or suggestions might help alleviate the problem created by global warming?

The New York Times

"What alternative do I have?

The Guardian

What alternative was there?

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what alternative", ensure the context clearly defines what the current option or situation is, so the need for an alternative is well understood. This prevents ambiguity and makes the inquiry more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "what alternative" when you're actually seeking enhancements or additions to a plan. This phrase is best suited for situations where a complete replacement is needed, not just improvements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what alternative" functions primarily as an interrogative phrase, used to inquire about the availability of other options or courses of action. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and widely usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

26%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what alternative" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to inquire about other options or solutions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a correct and effective way to prompt consideration of different approaches. Its frequent use in news, academic, and scientific contexts underscores its broad applicability and neutrality. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the need for an alternative to maximize clarity and impact. Related options include phrases like "what other option is there" or "what else can be done", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what other option is there

Focuses on the lack of other possibilities, implying a constrained choice.

what is the other choice

Directly asks for the available choice, simplifying the inquiry.

what is the alternative option

Adds emphasis by repeating 'alternative' and 'option'.

what else can be done

Broadens the scope to any actionable steps, not necessarily replacements.

what are the alternatives

Asks for a list of alternative options instead of a single alternative.

what are some other options

Seeks multiple choices, less formal than the original phrase.

what different path could be taken

Emphasizes a change in direction or strategy.

what other routes exist

Suggests a search for different methods or strategies.

what is a substitute

Asks for a single replacement, often in a specific context.

what is another possibility

Highlights the aspect of something being possible or feasible.

FAQs

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

You can use "what alternative" to inquire about other options or solutions. For example, "If this method fails, "what alternative" do we have?"

What phrases are similar to "what alternative"?

Similar phrases include "what other option is there", "what else can be done", or "what are the alternatives", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "what alternative" in formal writing?

Yes, "what alternative" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, consider using a slightly more elaborate phrase such as "what other options are available".

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

Both phrases are correct, but "what alternative" is more concise and commonly used, especially in spoken English. "What is the alternative" might be preferred in very formal contexts or when emphasizing the existence of an alternative.