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September 24, 2017 Word of the Day

alternate /ˈɑːltɚˌneɪt/ verb
alternate
/ˈɑːltɚˌneɪt/
verb

alternates; alternated; alternating

The dessert is made by alternating layers of cream and fruit.
The dessert is made by alternating layers of cream and fruit.
Definition of ALTERNATE

: to place or do (different things) so that one follows the other in a repeated series

[+ object]

  • To make the appetizer, you should alternate layers of tomatoes and cheese. [=you should place a layer of tomatoes, then a layer of cheese, then a layer of tomatoes, etc.]

  • The poem/poet alternates fear and hope.

— often + with

  • The necklace is made by alternating glass beads with shells.

  • The poem/poet alternates fear and hope with each other. = The poem/poet alternates fear with hope.

[no object]

  • The light and dark woods alternate to form an elegant pattern around the window.

— often + with

  • Light woods alternate with dark woods.

— often + between

  • The poem alternates between fear and hope.

  • He alternates between riding his bike and taking the bus to work.

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