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alternately — in turns; one after the other in succession

Part of speech: ADVERB

Definition: in turns; one after the other in succession

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɔːltərnətli/

Example Sentences

  • The baby alternately cried and slept, driving the parents crazy.
  • She alternately loved and hated her job as a food critic.
  • The comedian alternately told jokes and sang songs during his performance.

alternately

ADVERB

[/ˈɔːltərnətli/]

in turns; one after the other in succession

The lighthouse beam flashes alternately red and white across the dark harbor.
💡 Concept

The lighthouse beam flashes alternately red and white across the dark harbor.

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈɔːltərnətli/
🇬🇧 UK/ɔːlˈtɜːnətli/

🌳Etymology

Rootaltern
Suffix--ately

Origin

Derived from Latin alternatus, meaning 'done by turns' or 'alternating.' The concept originated in ancient Roman agricultural practices, where farmers would cultivate land in alternating sections to maintain soil fertility.

Breakdown

alter- (other, alternate) + -natus (past participle suffix) + -ly (adverbial suffix converting the adjective into an adverb).

🎵Rhyme

ultimatelyfortunatelydeliberately
ultimately
fortunately
deliberately

🔗Collocations

alternately hot and cold
breathe alternately
alternately laugh and cry
work alternately
alternately optimistic and pessimistic

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The baby alternately cried and slept, driving the parents crazy.”

“She alternately loved and hated her job as a food critic.”

“The comedian alternately told jokes and sang songs during his performance.”

😄 Fun example

“My computer alternately freezes and works perfectly, making me question my sanity.”

📚Related Words

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