alternative
UK: ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv | US: ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv
n. 1. One of two or more available possibilities or choices.
adj. 2. (of one or more things) Available as another possibility or choice.
adj. 3. Differing from the usual or conventional; unconventional.
The word "alternative" traces back to Latin alternatus (past participle of alternare, meaning "to do by turns"), derived from alter ("other"). The suffix -ive forms adjectives indicating tendency or capacity. The morpheme nat (from Latin natus, "born") is embedded in the Latin root but is no longer semantically active in modern English. Over time, "alternative" evolved from "alternating between two choices" to "offering a different option" and later to "unconventional."
We had no alternative but to cancel the event due to the storm.
She prefers alternative medicine over traditional treatments.
The band is known for its alternative rock style.
Consider the alternative route to avoid traffic.
His alternative approach solved the problem creatively.