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Alternately Meaning in English

word · lemma: alternate

ˈɔɫtɝnətɫi
AWL-ter-nuht-lee
ɔːltˈɜːnətlˌi
awl-TUR-nuht-lee

Definition

In a way that switches back and forth between two or more things, happening one after the other.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in formal or written contexts. It describes actions or events that switch repeatedly. Not the same as 'alternatively', which offers a choice. Often found in instructions or scientific descriptions.

Example Sentences

The lights flashed alternately red and green.

basic

Children sat alternately at the table: boy, girl, boy, girl.

basic

The fan turns alternately clockwise and counterclockwise.

basic

She alternately laughed and cried during the movie.

natural

We worked alternately on the project, taking turns each day.

natural

The pain would come and go, hitting him alternately throughout the night.

natural