alternatively

/ɒlˈtɜː(ɹ).nə.tɪv.li/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

in an alternative way

Adverb

Examples

Observers should keep in mind that these efforts at living alternatively are not easily undertaken; indeed, if they were, more people would be doing what they do.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Used to link a pair of opposing possibilities.

Adverb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “alternatively” mean?

in an alternative way

Is “alternatively” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.