alternativ
alternative
Representing another possibility; available as one of several options.
EXAMPLE
Wir können uns um 15 Uhr treffen, oder gibt es einen alternativen Vorschlag?
We can meet at 3 p.m., or is there an alternative suggestion?
alternativ
alternative
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Meanings
alternativ
alternative
Relating to a culture, lifestyle, or method that deliberately differs from the established norm, or mainstream.
EXAMPLE
Neben der Schulmedizin interessierte sie sich auch für alternative Heilmethoden.
In addition to conventional medicine, she was also interested in alternative healing methods.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'alternativ' (alternative) is directly related to the noun 'die Alternative' (the alternative). An alternative is another possibility or a choice.
EXAMPLE
Gibt es eine Alternative zu diesem Plan?
Is there an alternative to this plan?
Adverbial use
'Alternativ' (alternatively) can also be used as an adverb at the beginning of a sentence and then introduces another possibility. In this position, it is separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
EXAMPLE
Wir könnten ins Kino gehen. Alternativ, wir bleiben zu Hause und sehen einen Film.
We could go to the movies. Alternatively, we could stay home and watch a film.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'not conforming to the mainstream', 'alternativ' (alternative) is often combined with certain nouns. Common examples are 'alternative Medizin' (alternative medicine), 'alternative Energiequellen' (alternative energy sources), or 'alternative Lebensformen' (alternative ways of life).
EXAMPLE
Sie heizt ihr Haus mit alternativen Energien.
She heats her house with alternative energies.
Compare with
alternativ vs wahlweise
optionally / alternatively
Both words point to several possibilities. Wahlweise emphasizes the freedom to choose between the stated options. Alternativ more strongly highlights that one possibility can take the place of another, for example when the first is unavailable.
alternativ
Wenn die Kartenzahlung nicht funktioniert, können Sie alternativ bar bezahlen.
If card payment does not work, you can pay in cash instead.
wahlweise
Sie können wahlweise bar oder mit Karte bezahlen.
You can choose to pay either in cash or by card.
In real life
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