alternative
alternative
al·ter·na·tive
I
/ɑlˈtɚnətıv/ adj
1 always used before a noun : offering or expressing a choice
We have alternative [=other] plans in case the weather is bad.
an alternative explanation
We took an alternative route [=a different route] to avoid the traffic.
Scientists are developing an alternative approach to treating the disease.
2 : not usual or traditional
alternative rock music
He developed an alternative design for the new engine.
alternative medicine [=methods of healing or treating disease that are different from the usual methods taught in Western medical schools]
— often used to describe something that is more natural or that causes less pollution than the usual product, method, etc.
alternative energy/fuel
3 : existing or functioning outside of the established society
an alternative newspaper
alternative lifestyles
al·ter·na·tive·ly adv
We could meet at the library or, alternatively, we could all meet at my house.
————————
II
noun , pl -tives [ count ]
: something that can be chosen instead of something else : a choice or option
We decided to leave since our only other alternative was to wait in the rain.
They left me no alternative but to call the police. [=I had to call the police]
I was offered no alternative.
The menu offered several vegetarian alternatives.
— often + to
We've been looking for alternatives to the usual treatment, but it seems there are few options.
