1. altern- + -ative.
2. => offering one or the other of two.
3. Alternate means "by turns;" alternative means "offering a choice." Both imply two kinds or things.
英文词源
alternative (adj.)
1580s, "offering one or the other of two," from Medieval Latin alternativus, from Latin alternatus, past participle of alternare (see alternate (v.)). Meaning "purporting to be a superior choice to what is in general use" was current by 1970 (earliest reference is to the media). Alternative energy is from 1975. Related: Alternatively.
alternative (n.)
1620s, in rhetoric, from Medieval Latin alternativus (see alternative (adj.)). Of courses of action, from 1814. Of objects, etc., "the other of two which may be chosen," by 1838.
双语例句
1. New ways to treat arthritis may provide an alternative to painkillers.
关节炎的新疗法可能是止痛药之外的另一种选择。
来自柯林斯例句
2. It seems clear that he has no reasonable alternative.
他没有其他合适的选择，这一点似乎很清楚。
来自柯林斯例句
3. There may be alternative methods of substantiation other than written records.
除书面记录外，可能还有其他方法可以证实。
来自柯林斯例句
4. Is there an alternative to traction for a broken leg?
对于腿部骨折有什么方法替代牵引治疗吗？
来自柯林斯例句
5. I was interested in alternative medicine and becoming an aromatherapist.