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Intermediate Dictionary        

al·ter·nate

alternate

 
 
parts of speech:
verb, adjective, noun
features:
Word Parts
part of speech: verb
pronunciation: awl tr neIt
inflections: alternates, alternating, alternated
definition 1: to take turns (usually followed by "with").
She alternates with her sister in babysitting their younger brother.
synonyms:
rotate
similar words:
exchange, revolve, take turns, transfer, turn
definition 2: to move back and forth between two or more places, actions, or conditions (usually followed by "between").
Our Christmas lights alternate between red and bright blue.
See a movie for this meaning
 
synonyms:
rotate
similar words:
exchange, switch
definition 3: to use in turn, one after another; switch between.
She alternated chocolate and vanilla layers on the cake.
synonyms:
rotate
similar words:
exchange, shift, stagger, switch, transfer, turn
 
part of speech: adjective
pronunciation: awl tr nt
definition 1: following each other in turns, first one then the other.
My shirt has alternate red and white stripes.
definition 2: the second of every two; every other.
The class meets on alternate Wednesdays.
antonyms:
consecutive
definition 3: different from the usual; substitute.
He took an alternate route to work because the main highway was closed for repairs.
synonyms:
alternative
antonyms:
original
 
part of speech: noun
pronunciation: awl tr nt
definition: a person who acts in place of another when needed; substitute.
When the president is ill, the vice-president may act as his alternate.
synonyms:
substitute
similar words:
deputy
derivations: alternately (adv.), alternatingly (adv.)
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