as an alternative crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "as an alternative crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving prowess.
Solutions for "as an alternative crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
OR: A common conjunction indicating choice or an alternative.
4 Letters
ELSE: Signifies an additional or different option, as in "what else?"
6 Letters
RATHER: Used to indicate preference or an alternative, as in "rather than."
EITHER: Implies a choice between two possibilities.
7 Letters
INSTEAD: Means as a substitute or alternative, often used to present a different course of action.
ANOTHER: Referring to an additional or different person or thing.
More About "as an alternative crossword clue"
The phrase "as an alternative" is a classic crossword signal that directs solvers toward words representing choice, substitution, or a different possibility. Clues that include this phrase often require you to think about common conjunctions, adverbs, or even direct synonyms for "alternative." Understanding these subtle hints is key to unlocking many crossword puzzles.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have multiple meanings or can be used in various contexts. "As an alternative" is straightforward, but it can appear in many guises. For instance, a clue might read "Option presented as an alternative" for something like CHOICE, or "Otherwise" which is a direct synonym for 'as an alternative'. Always consider the exact wording and the required letter count to narrow down your options.
When you encounter such a clue, first think of the most direct and common short answers like 'OR' or 'ELSE'. If those don't fit, expand your thinking to longer words that convey the same meaning, such as 'INSTEAD' or 'RATHER'. Paying attention to surrounding letters you've already filled in can significantly help in confirming the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Wording: Pay close attention to every word in the clue. Is it a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb? "As an alternative" is an adverbial phrase, suggesting an adverb or a phrase acting adverbially as an answer.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before thinking of answers, check the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and guides your thought process.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues involving alternatives, consider words that mean the same as "alternative" or its opposite, as setters sometimes use antonyms to lead you astray.
- Look for Common Crossword Fillers: Short words like 'OR' and 'ELSE' are frequently used as fillers in crosswords, so always consider them first for shorter letter counts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "as an alternative" typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "as an alternative" or similar phrasing often signals an answer that presents a choice, a substitute, or a different option. Common answers include "OR," "ELSE," "INSTEAD," or "RATHER."
How can I identify alternative-related clues quickly?
Look for words like "or," "else," "instead," "otherwise," "failing that," "another option," or even implied choices in the phrasing of the clue. These phrases directly point to an answer that offers a different path or choice.
Are there synonyms for "alternative" that appear in crosswords?
Yes, many! Crossword setters often use synonyms like "choice," "option," "substitute," "replacement," "other," "different," "another," or "variant" to hint at answers related to alternatives.