How Do You Spell ALTERNATIVE?

Pronunciation: [ɔːltˈɜːnətˌɪv] (IPA)

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 Meaning and Definition

  1. 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.

  2. • 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.

Top Common Misspellings for ALTERNATIVE *

* 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.

Other Common Misspellings for ALTERNATIVE

Etymology of ALTERNATIVE

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.

Idioms with the word ALTERNATIVE

  • alternative facts The idiom "alternative facts" refers to a concept introduced in 2017 by a political adviser. It denotes false or misleading information presented as valid and credible, usually in an attempt to manipulate public opinion or justify a specific viewpoint. It suggests the distortion or fabrication of facts to fit a particular narrative.
  • alternative right The term "alternative right" (also known as alt-right) is a political ideology and movement that emerged in the United States in the late 2000s. It refers to a loosely defined group of individuals who reject mainstream conservatism and traditional right-wing politics, often advocating for far-right and extremist views. The alt-right emphasizes white nationalism, anti-immigration, anti-feminism, and opposition to multiculturalism. It has been associated with online radicalization, hate speech, and bigotry.
  • Alternative fuels The idiom "Alternative fuels" refers to any materials or substances used as a source of energy or propulsion other than traditional fossil fuels like coal, oil, or natural gas. These alternative fuels are usually derived from renewable and sustainable sources such as biofuels (ethanol, biodiesel), hydrogen, compressed natural gas (CNG), electricity (from renewable sources like solar or wind), or other innovative technologies that aim to reduce environmental impact and dependence on non-renewable resources.

Similar spelling words for ALTERNATIVE

Plural form of ALTERNATIVE is ALTERNATIVES

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