Meaning & Definition of word "Alternately"

Alternately

/ɒlˈtɜrnətli/

adverb:

  • 1. In an alternating manner; back and forth; by turns.
    • Example: The light flashed alternately between red and green.
  • 2. One after the other, in succession.
    • Example: The students worked on the project alternately, taking turns to lead.
  • 3. In a way that suggests mutual exclusivity or choice.
    • Example: She alternately laughed and cried during the emotional movie.
  • 4. Occurring in turns; one and then the other.
    • Example: The team won the championship alternately for three years.

Etymology

From the word alternate, combining with the -ly suffix.

Common Phrases and Expressions

alternately present:

To present in turns.

alternately engaged:

To be involved in two different activities in succession.

Related Words

alternate:

To switch between two or more options.

alternation:

The occurrence of two or more different things in turn.

Slang Meanings of alternately

Meaning: In a back-and-forth manner.

Example Sentence: They were swapping jokes alternately, making the room laugh.

Meaning: Taking turns.

Example Sentence: We played the game, alternating our moves.