ENGLISH
REFERENCE

alternatively

adv. sent.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɔɫˈtɝnətɪvɫi// UK //ɔːltˈɜːnətˌɪvli// al·ter·na·tive·ly

adv. used to suggest a different choice or possibility. You use it when you want to offer another way of doing something.

adv. used to introduce a second possibility or a different option from the one previously mentioned.


SIMPLE

We could go to the cinema; alternatively, we could stay home.

CONTEXTUAL

You can submit your application online; alternatively, you may post a physical copy to our head office.

COMPLEX

The board may choose to reinvest the surplus into research and development; alternatively, they could distribute it as a dividend to shareholders at the end of the fiscal year.

Synonyms
Origin

From alternative + -ly.

Usage

Sentence adverb — typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a new option.

Pitfall

You can pay by card or alternatively cash.You can pay by card or, alternatively, cash.When used within a sentence to offer a choice, it should be set off by commas or used to start a new independent clause.

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