The word "alternative" (/ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/) has a unique spelling that can cause confusion for some. The first syllable is spelled "al-" even though it is pronounced with a short "o" sound. The following syllable "-ter-" is spelled as expected, but the final syllable "-native" is a bit tricky. The "-a-" is pronounced with a schwa sound (/ə/), and the "-tive" ending is pronounced with a long "i" sound (/ʌɪv/). Altogether, the word is pronounced with a stress on the second syllable and the final "e" is silent.
Alternative:
The term "alternative" can be used as both a noun and an adjective, with slightly different meanings. As a noun, alternative refers to something that can be chosen or selected out of two or more options. It suggests the presence of an alternative or different choice which offers an option in place of the typical or traditional one. In this context, alternative can signify an option or substitute that provides a different approach or solution to a particular situation. For instance, an alternative to driving could be taking public transportation or biking.
As an adjective, alternative describes something that is different or distinct from the usual, common, or mainstream practice or thing. It relates to a more unconventional or nonstandard option that offers an alternative route or way. This implies that alternative suggests an option or choice that deviates from the norm or the traditional methods. For example, alternative medicine refers to various holistic approaches and practices that differ from conventional medical treatments.
Overall, alternative refers to a different and varied choice or option that is available as an alternative to the ordinary or established one. It captures the idea of providing an option that is alternative to the mainstream, offering diverse paths or solutions to various situations.
• Offering a choice of two things.
• Of two things, an offer to take the one and leave the other; often used, of more than two.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "alternative" originates from the Latin word "alternativus", which is derived from the verb "alternare", meaning "to alternate" or "to turn by turns". This Latin term is a combination of "alter", meaning "other" or "another", and the suffix "-ivus", indicating "tending to" or "promoting". The term "alternative" was first recorded in English around the mid-16th century, initially used in connection to legal or ecclesiastical choices and options. It eventually broadened in meaning to encompass various choices or possibilities beyond the conventional ones, leading to its modern usage.