alternatively.

as another possibility or option

Use it for

Words that belong together

• alternatively
• consider
• alternatively explain
• alternatively use

On the page

Alternatively, the pattern may reflect a change in reporting.

The sample can be expanded; alternatively, the claim can be narrowed.

Alternatively, researchers could compare the districts over time.

Usage notes

Primary curation section: Academic. Introduces an alternative, not an opposing consequence. Distinguish from alternately, which means in turns. Not compared. Related adjective and noun: alternative.