alternativa
“alternativa” means “alternative” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
alternative, option
Also: way out
📝 In Action
No tenemos otra alternativa, debemos empezar de nuevo.
A2We don't have another alternative; we must start again.
Ofrecieron una alternativa ecológica para el transporte.
B1They offered an ecological option for transportation.
Siempre hay una alternativa si buscas con calma.
A2There is always a choice if you look calmly.
alternative
Also: other
📝 In Action
Ella prefiere la medicina alternativa a los tratamientos convencionales.
B1She prefers alternative medicine over conventional treatments.
Necesitamos fuentes de energía alternativa.
B2We need alternative energy sources.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: alternativa
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'alternativa' as a noun?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Late Latin word *alternativus*, which itself is derived from the verb *alternare* (to alternate or take turns). It fundamentally means 'related to the choice between two things.'
First recorded: 17th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'alternativa' and 'opción'?
'Opción' is a general term for any choice, like choosing a dish on a menu. 'Alternativa' often implies a choice that is needed when the main plan fails, or a choice that is different from the standard or conventional path (like 'alternative medicine'). They are often interchangeable, but 'alternativa' carries more weight.
Does 'alternativa' always mean there are only two choices?
Historically, the root of the word suggests choosing between two things. However, in modern Spanish, 'alternativa' simply means 'an option' or 'a choice,' regardless of how many other choices are available. You can have many alternatives.