Alternative means another choice or option when you're deciding between different possibilities. When your family plans a beach vacation but rain is predicted, you might need an alternative plan, like visiting a museum instead. If the library doesn't have the book you want, the librarian might suggest an alternative title on the same topic.

The word emphasizes that you have more than one path forward. A student working on a science project might test several alternative methods to see which works best. A city considering alternative energy sources might look at solar panels, wind turbines, or hydroelectric power instead of relying only on coal or oil.

Alternative can also describe something unconventional or outside the mainstream. Alternative medicine refers to treatments different from standard medical practices. Some people prefer alternative music that sounds different from what's popular on the radio.

When someone says “What's the alternative?” they're asking what other choice exists. Having alternatives gives you flexibility and power because you're not stuck with just one choice.