Lael logo

alternativo means alternative — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 19, 2025

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

alternativo

adjective • /[al-tehr-nah-TEE-boh]/

alternative

Example:

El autor propone un enfoque alternativo al problema.

The author proposes an alternative approach to the problem.

🧠 What does alternativo mean?

The Spanish word 'alternativo' means 'alternative' in English. It describes something that is different from the usual or standard option, a secondary or substitute choice, or something unconventional or non-traditional. It can refer to things, ideas, methods, or even people. Think of it as offering another way or a different path.

📚 Extra examples

  • Busco un tratamiento alternativo para mi alergia.
    I'm looking for an alternative treatment for my allergy.
  • Ofrecen energía alternativa a través de paneles solares.
    They offer alternative energy through solar panels.
  • La banda tiene un estilo alternativo de música rock.
    The band has an alternative style of rock music.
  • Consideramos rutas alternativas para evitar el tráfico.
    We considered alternative routes to avoid traffic.
  • El profesor sugirió un método alternativo para resolver el problema.
    The teacher suggested an alternative method to solve the problem.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'alternativo' comes from the Latin word 'alternus', which means 'one after the other'.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "alternativo"

Synonyms: diferente, otro, distinto, sustituto, no convencional
Opposites: convencional, tradicional, usual, estándar

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'alternative' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'alternative' is 'alternativo'.
How do you pronounce 'alternativo' in Spanish?
It's pronounced ahl-tehr-nah-TEE-voh. The stress is on the 'tee' syllable.
How do you use 'alternativo' in a sentence?
Here's an example: 'Tenemos un plan alternativo si el primero falla' (We have an alternative plan if the first one fails).
What is the English translation of 'alternativo'?
'Alternativo' translates to 'alternative' in English.
Does 'alternativo' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'alternativo' changes to match the noun it describes. For feminine nouns, use 'alternativa', and for plurals, use 'alternativos' (masculine) or 'alternativas' (feminine).
Is 'alternativo' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'alternativo' is fairly common in everyday conversations and writing.
Does 'alternativo' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'alternativo' doesn't have any slang or double meanings. Its meaning is generally straightforward.
Is 'alternativo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'alternativo' are generally consistent across Spain and Latin America.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store