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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.

alternately

/ˈɔːltərnətli/ /ɒlˈtɜːnətli/

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.

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