American English
/ˈɔl.tɚ.neɪt̚/
3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Happening or used every second time, day, week, or similar period.
“Alternate” ends in /ˈɔɫ.tɚ.nət̚/ when it describes something used instead or a replacement person, but in /ˈɔɫ.tɚ.neɪt̚/ when it means to switch back and forth.
Happening or used every second time, day, week, or similar period.
I work on alternate Saturdays.
The nurse visits us on alternate days.
alternate days · alternate weeks · alternate rows · alternate years
alternate + plural time noun
on + alternate + plural time noun
Different from the usual or first choice, but possible to use instead.
We made an alternate plan for the picnic.
Take the alternate route through downtown.
alternate plan · alternate route · alternate version · alternate method
an alternate + noun
an alternate to + noun
To change repeatedly from one thing, person, or activity to another.
I alternate between sitting and standing at work.
The two speakers alternate during the meeting.
alternate work and rest · alternate hot and cold water
alternate between + noun A + and + noun B
noun A and noun B + alternate
A person who can replace another person if that person cannot take part.
The coach put an alternate on the roster.
An alternate will play if one of the starters is injured.
For another possible choice, use alternative: We need an alternative, not an alternate.
alternate player · alternate juror · alternate delegate
an alternate for + person or role
name + person + as an alternate