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al·ter·nate

alternate

 
 
parts of speech:
intransitive verb, transitive verb, adjective, noun
features:
Word Combinations (verb, adjective, noun), Word Parts
part of speech: intransitive verb
pronunciation: awl tr neIt
inflections: alternates, alternating, alternated
definition 1: to continuously rotate or take turns with one another (usu. fol. by "with").
The workers alternate with each other to break up the monotony of the work.
synonyms:
cycle, rotate
similar words:
exchange, interchange, reciprocate, revolve, take turns, transfer, turn
definition 2: to move back and forth indefinitely between two or more conditions, places, or actions (usu. fol. by "between").
He alternates between calm acceptance and utter grief.
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synonyms:
cycle, interchange, reciprocate, rotate
similar words:
exchange, platoon, switch
 
part of speech: transitive verb
pronunciation: awl tr neIt
definition 1: to do in succession or rotation.
For exercise, I alternate running and riding my bike.
synonyms:
interchange, rotate
similar words:
exchange, shift, transpose, turn
definition 2: to cause a constant interchange between.
She alternated chocolate and vanilla layers on the cake.
synonyms:
interchange, rotate
similar words:
exchange, shift, stagger, switch, transfer, transpose, turn
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part of speech: adjective
pronunciation: awl tr nt
definition 1: continuously rotating or taking turns with one another; occurring or following in turns.
My college graduation filled me with alternate feelings of happiness and sadness.
synonyms:
cyclical, rotative
definition 2: the second of every two in a series of pairs; every other.
The class meets on alternate Wednesdays.
antonyms:
consecutive
definition 3: exchanged from both sides; mutual; reciprocal.
There were alternate expressions of affection.
synonyms:
exchangeable, mutual, reciprocal
definition 4: substitute; alternative.
He took an alternate route to work because the main highway was closed for repairs.
synonyms:
alternative, substitute
antonyms:
original
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part of speech: noun
pronunciation: awl tr nt
definition: one authorized to act in place of another; substitute.
If the contest winner cannot fulfill his or her duties, the alternate will be called in.
synonyms:
proxy, substitute
antonyms:
primary
similar words:
backup, deputy
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derivations: alternately (adv.), alternatingly (adv.)
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