Example: Which of the following alternatives would you prefer for lunch? McDonald's, Harvey's, Burger King, Wendy's, KFC? (All fast food chains here in Canada) An alternative is one or more things you have to choose from. Usually you can choose only one of the alternatives. Copy and paste of http://www.google.com/search?q=define:alternative al·ter·na·tive ôlˈtərnətiv/Submit adjective 1. (of one or more things) available as another possibility. "the various alternative methods for resolving disputes" synonyms: different, other, another, second, possible, substitute, replacement, alternate; More (of two things) mutually exclusive. "the facts fit two alternative scenarios" of or relating to behavior that is considered unconventional and is often seen as a challenge to traditional norms. "an alternative lifestyle" synonyms: unorthodox, unconventional, nonstandard, unusual, uncommon, out of the ordinary, radical, revolutionary, nonconformist, avant-garde; More noun noun: alternative; plural noun: alternatives 1. one of two or more available possibilities. "audiocassettes are an interesting alternative to reading" synonyms: option, choice, other possibility; More Hope the above helps.