alternating with vs alternate with

Both "alternating with" and "alternate with" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Alternating with" is used when things switch back and forth in a regular pattern, while "alternate with" is used when things take turns or occur in succession.

Last updated: March 30, 2024 • 1069 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"alternating with "

This phrase is used to describe a pattern where things switch back and forth in a regular sequence.

Examples:

The team members took turns alternating with each other in presenting their ideas.
The colors on the flag were red and white, alternating with each other.
The chef prepared a variety of dishes, alternating with desserts.

Show examples from the web [+]

The next 24-hour rotation will be split among us, alternating with the Sparrow case.
An electronic computer is an instrument which is used to create music, not composed of notes but of codes and commands, alternating with rhythm and a composed sequence, made by the developer, giving rise to different actions and results.
I'm on an elver-based diet, alternating with seafood.
Boundless energy, euphoria alternating with exhaustion.
Other glaciations followed, alternating with warming.
The semi-continental climate of the production area is marked by high temperatures in summer and sunny days alternating with cool nights in late autumn.
People with bipolar disorder (sometimes called manic depression) have extreme mood swings, with periods of mania (excitement or euphoria) alternating with periods of depression (deep sadness or despair).
A small capsule is designed with a series of films, alternating with spaces and dividers.
Too many have short-term contracts, often alternating with unemployment, and many young people - even those who are well qualified - have little chance of getting more stable contracts.
This will oblige even the qualified to flit between insecure jobs, alternating them with the inevitable unemployment.
It only transfers alternating currents with a ratio of 1:1 (see also the Harmonised System Explanatory Notes to heading 8504).
I'm alternating guards with another, other week.
But you'll have a better shot alternating full throttle with dynamic braking.
For warning devices supplied with alternating current, this requirement shall apply only at constant generator speed, within the range specified in paragraph 6.2.3.2.
Normally, Mandy works Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and her graveyard shifts are Friday, Saturday, Sunday, with alternating Mondays off.
For investigation of potential carry-over, at least five runs with alternating high-positive and negative specimens shall be performed during robustness studies.
And remember, alternating an ice pack with a... a heating pas is very helpful for spasming.
With an alternating test force the resulting load is equal to zero.
A dynamic test with an alternating horizontal force of Fhw = ±0,6 D shall be applied to the coupling pin in the operating position.
The dynamic test shall be performed with approximately sinusoidal load (alternating and/or pulsating) with a number of stress cycles appropriate to the material.

Alternatives:

switching with
changing with
rotating with
interchanging with
shifting with

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"alternate with "

This phrase is used to describe a pattern where things take turns or occur in succession, rather than switching back and forth in a regular sequence.

Examples:

The main course alternated with the dessert during the dinner service.
The seasons in this region alternate with dry and rainy periods.
The singer alternated with the guitarist in performing solos.

Show examples from the web [+]

Threats should always alternate with humanity.
Back in 1927, English theatrical producer and actor Hamilton Deane decided to try out another subject for his company, to alternate with his version of Bram Stoker's novel Dracula, on his tour of the English provinces.
Floods alternate with dry months, and this calls for a new water management strategy.
All year round, parched dry days alternate with days of torrential rain.
You want to alternate with your foot.
Picture deadline is Thursday and finals study groups alternate with all of the above.
The hilly topography of Cévennes consists of ridges, the 'serres', that alternate with deep and narrow valleys that are oriented towards the northwest/southeast, the 'valats'.
- Given the considerable coordination which would be required at various levels for both the Euro Area Review and the EU 25 Review, the EU 25 Review should alternate with the Euro Area Review, i.e. each review would take place biennially.

Alternatives:

take turns with
succeed with
follow with
alternate between
rotate with

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

alternating with vs alternate with