Understanding the Difference between ‘Alternative’ and ‘Alternate’ Usage | GMAT Sentence Correction Tips #4

by | Apr 8, 2023 | TIPS Bonds




SC Question for the week:

Question: Which of the following statements is/are grammatically correct?

Statement 1: The committee has changed its regular meetings from the first Friday of every month to alternative Wednesdays.
Statement 2: In an effort to diversify her investments from bonds, Mary sought John’s advice on alternate investment instruments.

Find out when to use ‘alternative’ and ‘alternate’ in this video.

#gmat #mba #shorts #gmatshots #wizako #gmattips #gmatsc #gmatverbal #sentencecorrectionrules…(read more)


LEARN MORE ABOUT: Treasury Inflation Protected Securities

REVEALED: Best Investment During Inflation

HOW TO INVEST IN GOLD: Gold IRA Investing

HOW TO INVEST IN SILVER: Silver IRA Investing


The words ‘Alternative’ and ‘Alternate’ are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinction between the two that should be noted.

‘Alternative’ is usually used as a noun or adjective, and refers to an option that can be chosen instead of something else. For example, “I am considering alternative methods of transportation instead of driving my car,” or “There are alternative solutions to this problem.”

On the other hand, ‘Alternate’ is typically used as a verb or adjective. As a verb, it means to take turns or occur at regular intervals. For instance, “The two teams will alternate playing offense and defense during the game,” or “I alternate between running and swimming for my exercise routine.” As an adjective, ‘alternate’ signifies something that occurs every other or second time, as in “The alternate rows in the field were left unplanted.”

However, there are instances when ‘alternate’ can be used as a noun. In these cases, it refers to a substitute or replacement, usually used in the context of a designated backup, like “John is the alternate member of the team, in case any of the main members cannot attend.”

See also  Tips From Absolute Bail Bonds on How to Get A Low Bail Payment

To sum up, while ‘alternative’ and ‘alternate’ contain similar meanings, it is essential to understand their distinct usage to avoid any confusion. Remember that ‘alternative’ refers to a choice, while ‘alternate’ mostly involves taking turns or every second occurrence. Keeping these in mind will help you communicate your thoughts accurately and precisely.

Truth about Gold
You May Also Like

0 Comments

U.S. National Debt

The current U.S. national debt:
$34,609,796,817,427

Source

ben stein recessions & depressions

Retirement Age Calculator

  Original Size