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Alternative: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：a different choice (alternative)
alternative
/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/
adj.
Something that can be used instead of the usual thing; a different choice you can make.
a different choice
➕
/ə ˈdɪfrənt tʃɔɪs/
adj.
Something that can be selected as a replacement for the usual option.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'alternativus', meaning 'offering a choice between two things'.
💡 Mnemonic
ALTER your path with an ALTERNATIVE choice.
📖 Example
Scientists are researching alternative energy sources, like solar and wind power, to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Scientists are studying alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to lessen dependence on fossil fuels.
🔗 Collocations
alternative energy – Energy derived from non-traditional sources like solar or wind.
alternative medicine – Medical practices that are not part of conventional medicine.
alternative option – A different choice available.
🔄 Synonyms
substitute (n.) – Something that takes the place of another.
option (n.) – A thing that may be chosen.
choice (n.) – An act of selecting between possibilities.
🚫 Antonyms
standard (adj.) – Conforming to established norms.
traditional (adj.) – Based on long-established customs.
🌱 Derivatives
alternatively (adv.) – As another option or possibility.
alternativeness (n.) – The quality of being alternative.
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'alternativus', related to 'alternate'. In modern contexts, it denotes options in decision-making or non-mainstream cultures.
Meaning 2：non-mainstream style (alternative)
alternative
/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/
adj.
Different from what is usual, traditional, or mainstream; representing a different style or way of thinking.
non-mainstream style
➕
/nɒn ˈmeɪnstriːm staɪl/
adj.
Different from conventional or popular norms, often associated with independent or artistic expressions.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Instead of going to the big commercial music festival, they chose a smaller, more alternative event featuring independent artists.
Instead of attending the large commercial music festival, they opted for a smaller, more alternative event with independent artists.
🔗 Collocations
alternative music – Music genre that diverges from mainstream pop.
alternative lifestyle – A way of living that differs from societal norms.
alternative scene – The community or environment associated with non-mainstream culture.
🔄 Synonyms
unconventional (adj.) – Not based on or conforming to what is generally done.
non-traditional (adj.) – Not following established customs.
independent (adj.) – Free from outside control; not depending on another.
🚫 Antonyms
mainstream (adj.) – The ideas, attitudes, or activities that are regarded as normal.
conventional (adj.) – Based on or in accordance with what is generally done.
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