alternating Definition
- 1occurring in turns; following one another continuously
- 2switching back and forth between two things
Using alternating: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alternating" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The team took turns alternating positions on the field.
Example
The pattern consisted of alternating stripes of blue and white.
Example
She alternated between feeling happy and sad throughout the day.
alternating Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for alternating
Antonyms for alternating
- steady
- constant
Phrases with alternating
an electric current that reverses direction at regular intervals
Example
Most household appliances run on alternating current.
a mathematical series in which the signs of the terms alternate between positive and negative
Example
The alternating series test is a method for determining whether an infinite series converges or diverges.
a group in abstract algebra consisting of even permutations of a finite set
Example
The alternating group on three elements has three members.
Origins of alternating
from Latin 'alternare', meaning 'to do by turns'
Summary: alternating in Brief
'Alternating' [awl-ter-ney-ting] means occurring in turns, or switching back and forth between two things. It can describe physical actions like taking turns on a sports team or patterns like stripes of different colors. 'Alternating' also has specific meanings in math and science, such as 'alternating current,' 'alternating series,' and 'alternating group.'
