German Conversation · Level 28
90 words
German word
Alternative
Pronunciation
IPA/altɛɐ̯naˈtiːvə/
Meaning
- feminine nounalternative
Example
Wir brauchen eine Alternative.
We need an alternative.
More examples
Als Alternative können wir den nächsten Bus nehmen.
As an alternative, we can take the next bus.
Core concept
A second route or plan stands ready to replace the one currently being considered.
Common phrases
eine bessere Alternative
a better alternative
als Alternative
as an alternative
eine Alternative anbieten
offer an alternative
Similar words
Option: One of several plans or actions that can be chosen.
Wahl: The process of choosing one thing from several possibilities.
Möglichkeit: A possible event or outcome.
Variante: Another form or way of carrying out the same thing.
Definition in German
Eine Ersatzmöglichkeit oder ein alternativer Vorschlag, der an Stelle einer bestehenden Option treten kann.
Word origin
German "Alternative" was borrowed through French from Latin "alternus" ('alternating'), related to "alternare" ('to alternate').
Usage tips
- The feminine noun takes the plural "Alternativen", and "Alternative zu" is followed by the dative.
Other meanings
- optionnoun
Related words
- Alternativlösungalternative solutionnoun
- Alternativangebotalternative proposalnoun