The meaning of ALTERNATIVE is offering or expressing a choice. How to use alternative in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Alternative.

/ ɑːlˈtɝː.nə.t̬ɪv / B2 something that is different from something else, especially from what is usual, and offering the possibility of choice: an alternative to an alternative to coffee

ALTERNATIVE definition: a choice limited to one of two or more possibilities, as of things, propositions, or courses of action, the selection of which precludes any other possibility. See examples of …

If one thing is an alternative to another, the first can be found, used, or done instead of the second.

· As an adjective, alternative can mean "allowing or requiring a choice between two or more things," as in We wrote an alternative statement in case the first was rejected by the board.

ALTERNATIVE meaning: 1 : offering or expressing a choice; 2 : not usual or traditional often used to describe something that is more natural or that causes less pollution than the usual product, method, …

Definition of alternative noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Factsheet What does the word alternative mean? There are 13 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word alternative. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Dec 14, 2025 · alternative (plural alternatives) A situation which allows a mutually exclusive choice between two or more possibilities; a choice between two or more possibilities. [from 17th c.] quotations

a choice limited to one of two or more possibilities, as of things, propositions, or courses of action, the selection of which precludes any other possibility: You have the alternative of riding or walking.