workable alternative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "workable alternative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing options or solutions that are practical and feasible in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the initial proposal, we need to find a workable alternative that meets our budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And he doesn't offer a workable alternative.

The New York Times

Maybe one of them provides a workable alternative to Obamacare.

The New Yorker

Mr. Platt deserves praise for providing a workable alternative.

The New York Times - Arts

Trying different health products including weight gain teas to stay healthy might be a workable alternative.

Harvard University

"There was no workable alternative," she wrote in an e-mail.

The New York Times

Mr. Mugler has hit upon a workable alternative to his once white-hot predatory woman.

The New York Times - Style

The Republicans have no viable replacement plan; Generation Opportunity can point to no workable alternative.

The New York Times

Fourth: hardest of all, parliament must come up with a workable alternative to May's deal.

The Guardian - Opinion

Corbyn says that Labour's plan for a comprehensive customs union is a workable alternative.

The Guardian

Three years later he has not produced a workable alternative that commands general consent or respect.

The Washington Post

Sending home memory cards with copies of photos and videos is a workable alternative to carrying them with you.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When proposing a "workable alternative", clearly outline its benefits and feasibility compared to the original plan or approach. This helps ensure its adoption and successful implementation.

Common error

Avoid presenting an alternative as "workable" without thoroughly assessing its potential challenges and limitations. Ensure that the alternative is truly practical and sustainable in the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "workable alternative" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "workable" modifies "alternative". As Ludwig AI confirms, this structure is grammatically correct. It describes a proposed solution or option that is not only different from the current or proposed one but also practically feasible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "workable alternative" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a practical and feasible solution. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, functioning primarily as a noun phrase. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Academia and Science, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When employing this phrase, focus on clearly outlining the benefits and feasibility of the alternative, while also being realistic about its potential limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feasible option

Emphasizes the practicality and possibility of being carried out.

viable substitute

Highlights the capability to replace something effectively.

practical solution

Focuses on the problem-solving aspect and ease of implementation.

realistic possibility

Stresses the achievability and grounded nature of the alternative.

serviceable replacement

Highlights the functionality and ability to temporarily take the place of something.

implementable plan

Emphasizes a structured approach with the capacity to be put into action.

achievable resolution

Focuses on reaching a conclusion that is possible to attain.

functional equivalent

Stresses that the alternative has the same purpose and action as the original.

reasonable course of action

Indicates the alternative presents a rational and justifiable set of measures.

effective methodology

Highlights the ability of the alternative to produce the desired outcome in a structured way.

FAQs

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

You can use "workable alternative" to describe a solution that is practical and feasible. For example: "We need to find a "workable alternative" to the current system."

What are some synonyms for "workable alternative"?

Some synonyms for "workable alternative" include "feasible option", "viable substitute", or "practical solution".

Is "workable alternative" a formal or informal phrase?

"Workable alternative" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it is a common and easily understood phrase.

What is the difference between a "workable alternative" and an "ideal solution"?

A "workable alternative" is a practical and feasible solution, while an "ideal solution" represents the best possible outcome, which may not always be achievable in reality.