Kirk Mahoney . com

I was wondering the other day about these two nouns.

Problem:
The basic definitions differ between these two nouns.

Explanation:
The primary meaning of the noun “alternate” is someone who is allowed to substitute for someone else.

The primary meaning of the noun “alternative” is a selection of one of two or more possibilities.

Solution:
Use “alternate” specifically when referring to a substitute person; use “alternative” otherwise.