What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
or
Example
Would you like tea or coffee? [or: conjunction]
Example
I can't decide whether to go to the beach or the mountains. [or: preposition]
Example
He's either very brave or very foolish. [or: adverb]
alternatively
Example
If you don't want to go to the party, alternatively we could go to the movies. [alternatively: adverb]
Example
We could try a different method, alternatively. [alternatively: adverb]
Example
Some people prefer to work in the morning, while others alternatively prefer to work at night. [alternatively: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Or is more commonly used than alternatively in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Alternatively is less common and more formal, often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between or and alternatively?
Or is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while alternatively is more formal and less common in casual conversation. It is often used in professional or academic settings to suggest a different approach or solution.
