as in alternately
in place of another option
We could go out for dinner or, alternatively, we could get takeout.
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Recent Examples of alternatively
Ho’s family is from Toisan, alternatively spelled as Taishan or Hoisan.
—
Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2026
Prepare to be dazzled by the destination's stunningly clear waters, which are great for boating, swimming, or paddling; alternatively, post up by one of the pristine beaches.
—Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 3 June 2026
Or alternatively, too cold and critical.
—Christopher Edwards, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026
If air conditioning isn't an option, consider other ways to lower your bedroom's temperature or, alternatively, your body's temperature.
—Jennifer Klump, Verywell Health, 18 May 2026
The headlong rush of Na’s bonkers would-be international blockbuster left Cannes alternatively awed, befuddled and thrilled.
—ABC News, 18 May 2026
Migrations like these happen for many reasons—new apps and systems might have a better business case because of technological edge or cost, alternatively, a merger or acquisition might mean that new staff have to be brought into alignment with the broader company.
—Thomas Berndorfer, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
It is alternatively referred to as social constructivism or social constructionism.
—Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 12 May 2026
There's also a seating space for one that could alternatively make room for a washer/dryer.
—Adam Williams
may 03, New Atlas, 3 May 2026
Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2026
Prepare to be dazzled by the destination's stunningly clear waters, which are great for boating, swimming, or paddling; alternatively, post up by one of the pristine beaches.
—Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 3 June 2026
Or alternatively, too cold and critical.
—Christopher Edwards, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026
If air conditioning isn't an option, consider other ways to lower your bedroom's temperature or, alternatively, your body's temperature.
—Jennifer Klump, Verywell Health, 18 May 2026
The headlong rush of Na’s bonkers would-be international blockbuster left Cannes alternatively awed, befuddled and thrilled.
—ABC News, 18 May 2026
Migrations like these happen for many reasons—new apps and systems might have a better business case because of technological edge or cost, alternatively, a merger or acquisition might mean that new staff have to be brought into alignment with the broader company.
—Thomas Berndorfer, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
It is alternatively referred to as social constructivism or social constructionism.
—Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 12 May 2026
There's also a seating space for one that could alternatively make room for a washer/dryer.
—Adam Williams
may 03, New Atlas, 3 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for alternatively
alternately
Adverb
-
The alternately suspenseful and silly scene nicely sets up the tone for this new season, which is infused with references to classic Westerns as much as screwball comedies.—
David Canfield,
HollywoodReporter,
1 June 2026
-
Add flour mixture and 3/4 cup milk alternately, beating on low after each addition just until combined.—
Katlyn Moncada,
Better Homes & Gardens,
27 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Alternatively.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alternatively. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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