"alternative of" vs "alternative to"

Question

"alternative of" vs "alternative to"

Both 'alternative to' and 'alternative of' are commonly used in English, but 'alternative to' is more widely accepted and preferred. 'Alternative to' is the standard preposition used to introduce the option that can be chosen instead of something else.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

While 'alternative of' is less common, it can still be used in informal contexts to introduce another option.

Examples:

What is the alternative of using plastic bags?
This is an alternative of the original plan.

Alternatives:

substitute of
replacement of
option of
choice of

Use 'alternative to' when presenting another option that can be chosen instead of something else.

Examples:

What is the alternative to taking the bus?
There is no alternative to hard work.

Alternatives:

substitute for
replacement for
option instead of
choice to

Answer 1

alternative of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, but 'alternative to' is more preferred.

Answer 2

alternative to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"alternative of" vs "alternative to"

alternative of

alternative to

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