wahlweise
optionally
Indicating that one of several possibilities is available to choose from; optionally or alternatively.
EXAMPLE
Das Gericht wird wahlweise mit Reis oder Kartoffeln serviert.
The dish is served optionally with rice or potatoes.
wahlweise
optionally / alternatively
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The adverb 'wahlweise' (optionally/alternatively) is made up of the noun 'die Wahl' (the choice) and the ending '-weise'. The ending '-weise' forms adverbs and means 'in the manner of,' so literally 'in the manner of a choice.'
EXAMPLE
Sie haben die Wahl zwischen zwei verschiedenen Desserts.
You have the choice between two different desserts.
Sentence position
'Wahlweise' (optionally) can be placed flexibly in a sentence. It can stand at the beginning of the sentence in position 1 (then the verb follows), or inside the sentence, usually directly before the options it describes.
EXAMPLE
Wahlweise können Sie bar oder mit Karte zahlen.
Optionally, you can pay in cash or by card.
Typical context
This word is very commonly used in contexts where options are offered. You often find it on menus, in instructions, on forms, or in product descriptions.
EXAMPLE
Zum Frühstück gibt es wahlweise Kaffee oder Tee.
For breakfast, there is optionally coffee or tea.
Compare with
wahlweise vs alternativ
alternative
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.
wahlweise
Sie können wahlweise bar oder mit Karte bezahlen.
You can choose to pay either in cash or by card.
alternativ
Wenn die Kartenzahlung nicht funktioniert, können Sie alternativ bar bezahlen.
If card payment does not work, you can pay in cash instead.
In real life
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