Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[missdaredevil]

Can *alternative* always substitue *alterate*?

Thanks

[helen1]

There are two meanings of 'alternate' - with different stress

1) AlTERnate - To be the 'alternative' or
2) AlterNATE - To move/change between two or more things/conditions

For the first - I think the answer would be yes - I can't think of any time they wouldn't be able to be substituted
For the second the answer is definitely no -

[BMO]

Alternative is a choice. (Do you have any other alternative? How about going to a movie?)

Alternate is a person. (In case John is sick, Henry will be the alternate.)

[helen1]

Good one BMO

[BMO]

Thanks, Helen 1. May I ask, is alternate always a second choice, whereas alternative can be the third one, as in "a third alternative?" (From AHD)

[helen1]

I think you're right on that too BMO - if anyone thinks differently, please share.