What's the Difference Between 'Alternately' and 'Alternatively'?
In this blog post we look at when to use alternately and when to use alternatively.
'Alternately' or 'Alternatively'?
Alternately and alternatively are two words that are often used to describe things that happen or occur in a repeated or changing pattern.
Alternately means "by turns; one after the other," or "occurring in a repeating pattern." It is often used to describe something that happens or occurs in a sequential or alternating fashion.
Alternatively means "as an alternative or substitute," or "as another option or possibility." It is often used to describe something that is offered or chosen as an alternative to something else.
In summary, alternately means "by turns; one after the other," or "occurring in a repeating pattern," while alternatively means "as an alternative or substitute," or "as another option or possibility."
Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between alternately and alternatively:
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The dancers performed the routine alternately, with one group performing while the other rested. (Alternately refers to something that happens or occurs in a sequential or alternating fashion.)
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Alternatively, you could use a different type of flour in the recipe if you don't have any wheat flour. (Alternatively refers to something that is offered or chosen as an alternative to something else.)
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The students worked on the project alternately, with one group working on Monday and Wednesday and the other working on Tuesday and Thursday. (Alternately refers to something that happens or occurs in a repeating pattern.)
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The company is offering a new product as an alternative to its existing line of products. (Alternatively refers to something that is offered or chosen as an alternative to something else.)
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The company has two offices in the city, and the employees alternately work from one office and then the other. (Alternately refers to something that happens or occurs in a repeating pattern.)
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Alternatively, you could try using a different recipe if this one doesn't turn out well. (Alternatively refers to something that is offered or chosen as an alternative to something else.)
Examples of Alternately in a Sentence
Here are ten example sentences using the word alternately:
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The dancers performed the routine alternately, with one group performing while the other rested.
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The students worked on the project alternately, with one group working on Monday and Wednesday and the other working on Tuesday and Thursday.
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The company has two offices in the city, and the employees alternately work from one office and then the other.
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The traffic lights at the intersection turn alternately red and green, allowing cars to proceed in turn.
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The speakers at the conference presented their papers alternately, with one speaking and then the other.
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The players on the soccer team took turns shooting alternately at the goal.
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The teacher called on the students alternately to answer questions during the class discussion.
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The band members took turns singing alternately during the concert.
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The athletes ran the track alternately, with one running a lap and then the other.
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The children took turns swinging alternately on the swings at the playground.
Examples of Alternatively in a Sentence
Here are ten example sentences using the word alternatively:
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Alternatively, you could use a different type of flour in the recipe if you don't have any wheat flour.
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The company is offering a new product as an alternative to its existing line of products.
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Alternatively, you could try using a different recipe if this one doesn't turn out well.
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The company is offering a flexible work schedule as an alternative to the traditional 9-to-5 model.
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Alternatively, you could use a different type of paint if you don't have any blue.
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The company is offering a subscription-based model as an alternative to the traditional purchase model.
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Alternatively, you could try using a different method of studying if this one isn't working for you.
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The teacher is offering extra credit as an alternative to detention for students who misbehave in class.
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Alternatively, you could use a different type of wood if you don't have any oak.
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The company is offering a rent-to-own program as an alternative to traditional financing for home purchases.
