alternatively

as in alternately
in place of another option We could go out for dinner or, alternatively, we could get takeout.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of alternatively Yust seeks a new trial or, alternatively, a new sentencing hearing. Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 Witness the Cold War speculation in the 1950s that adding fluoride to drinking water was, alternatively, a Communist plot or a CIA mind-control experiment. Susan Page, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 In addition to serving as a midair refueling aircraft, the KC-46A can alternatively serve as a strategic military transport aircraft, carrying up to 65,000 pounds of cargo. Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Accessed by some steps between the bathroom and bedroom, it's shown here furnished with a couple of single beds but could alternatively be used to stash belongings or as a kid's room or general hangout space. New Atlas, 25 Aug. 2026 Might that be because this particular partner would include politicians prone to grandstanding — or, alternatively, focused more on mundane issues such as schools and crime than on horse racing? Stephen J. K. Walters, Baltimore Sun, 12 Aug. 2026 That Amazon does not hit new all-time highs between now and late September, or alternatively is unlikely to fall through its pre-earnings levels. Michael Khouw, CNBC, 12 Aug. 2026 Or, alternatively, importers register arriving tankers as empty or near-empty. Foreign Correspondent, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026 As the judge noted in a footnote, the plaintiffs sought a TRO and, alternatively, a PI. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for alternatively
alternately
Adverb
  • With action that’s alternately jaw-dropping and campy, the newest Street Fighter will punch and kick its way into theaters nearly 40 years after the franchise first launched.
    Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026
  • The Supreme Court has been a fitful friend to Trump in his second term, alternately enabling and impeding him.
    Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Alternatively.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alternatively. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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