Alternately - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Alternately means happening or following in turns, one after the other. It can also describe doing something by switching between two options or actions repeatedly. Example: She alternately laughed and cried.
Definition:
Occurring in turns or following one after the other in succession.
Synonyms:
interchangeably, reciprocally, sequentially, by turns
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
simultaneously, concurrently
Common Collocations:
alternately colored, arranged alternately, speak alternately
Derivatives:
alternate, alternation, alternating
Usage Tips:
Use "alternately" to describe actions or events that happen in a repeating sequence or take turns.
Common Phrases:
alternately laughing and crying, alternately hot and cold, alternately fast and slow
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "alternatus," meaning "done by turns," from "alternare" (to alternate).
Examples:
- 1. The lights flashed alternately red and green.
- 2. They took turns speaking alternately during the debate.
- 3. She felt alternately happy and sad about the news.
- 4. The stripes on the shirt are colored alternately blue and white.