alternative

views updated

al·ter·na·tive / ôlˈtərnətiv/ • adj. (of one or more things) available as another possibility: the various alternative methods for resolving disputes. ∎  (of two things) mutually exclusive: the facts fit two alternative scenarios. ∎  of or relating to behavior that is considered unconventional and is often seen as a challenge to traditional norms: an alternative lifestyle.• n. one of two or more available possibilities: she had no alternative but to break the law.DERIVATIVES: al·ter·na·tive·ly adv. alternatively, you may telephone us direct.