ENGLISH
REFERENCE

alternating

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɔɫtɝˌneɪtɪŋ// UK //ˈɔːltənˌeɪtɪŋ// al·ter·nat·ing

v. changing back and forth between two states, positions, or people. You use it when something switches regularly from one thing to another.

v. characterized by regular alternation between two states, positions, or parties. Typically used attributely before a noun.


SIMPLE

The traffic light is alternating between red and green.

CONTEXTUAL

The committee uses an alternating schedule so both teams get equal meeting time.

COMPLEX

The alternating current in your home outlets reverses its direction many times per second, unlike the steady flow of direct current.

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