What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alternant
Example
The alternant flashing of the traffic lights helped regulate the flow of vehicles. [alternant: adjective]
Example
The two friends took turns being the alternant driver on their road trip. [alternant: noun]
reciprocal
Example
The two countries had a reciprocal agreement to allow visa-free travel for their citizens. [reciprocal: adjective]
Example
The reciprocal of 2 is 0.5. [reciprocal: noun]
Example
The couple had a reciprocal affection for each other, and they both expressed their love equally. [reciprocal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reciprocal is more commonly used than alternant in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alternant and reciprocal?
Reciprocal is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while alternant is typically associated with technical or specialized language.
