As another option or possibility; instead of what has been mentioned or as a different approach. It introduces a substitute or different course of action.
From Latin 'alternatus' meaning 'done by turns', derived from 'alter' (other, second). The English adverb developed in the 17th century from 'alternative', initially describing things that occurred in turns or succession, evolving to mean 'as another option' by the 18th century.
Alternatively is the polite way of saying 'or you could do this completely different thing instead' - it opens doors rather than closing them. What's clever about this word is how it maintains diplomatic neutrality between options while clearly signaling a departure from the current path, making it perfect for negotiations and brainstorming.
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