"alternative" vs "substitute"

Question

"alternative" vs "substitute"

Both 'alternative' and 'substitute' are correct words, but they are used in different contexts. 'Alternative' refers to something that can be used or chosen instead of something else, while 'substitute' specifically refers to a person or thing that takes the place of another. They are not interchangeable in all contexts.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

You can use 'alternative' when you want to suggest another option or choice that can be used in place of the original one.

Examples:

What are the alternative solutions to this problem?
There are many alternative ways to get to the airport.
Do you have any alternative suggestions for our vacation plans?

Alternatives:

option
choice
substitute
replacement
different

You can use 'substitute' when referring to a replacement for something or someone, especially in the context of a person filling in for another.

Examples:

She used almond milk as a substitute for regular milk in the recipe.
The substitute teacher will be taking over the class today.
I need to find a substitute for my broken phone charger.

Alternatives:

replacement
stand-in
alternative
fill-in
surrogate

Answer 1

alternative

The word 'alternative' is correct and commonly used in English to refer to something that can be used or chosen instead of something else.

Answer 2

substitute

The word 'substitute' is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a person or thing that takes the place of another.

"alternative" vs "substitute"

alternative

substitute

Related Comparisons