Alternately

Adverb describing actions or events that follow one after the other in a regular, repeated pattern, switching back and forth. This pattern could apply to various elements like colors, positions, or actions. The 'alternately' element shows a rhythm of change, and the sequence can be anything from the most straightforward patterns to more complex arrangements. It emphasizes the succession of contrasting entities or actions, which are often, but not always, in pairs. The order of elements that make up the pattern will remain stable, or at least, is implied to remain stable.

Alternately meaning with examples

• The artist painted the wall in stripes, using blue and then green paint alternately. The colors created a striking visual effect across the large surface of the room. The painter needed to wait for each color to dry before she could apply the subsequent color of paint, and then repeat this process across the entirety of the wall. The choice gave a calming but bold visual feel.
• During the game of tag, the children ran, alternately chasing and being chased by each other. The chasing and being chased action created a fun dynamic of change between each child; as the rules specified that once caught, you were now the chaser and your target would now have to run. This activity, the 'tag' itself, continued until it was time to leave.
• The program uses two threads, which execute alternately to process tasks and generate an output. The threading setup will allow the program to execute smoothly without one task hanging up the progress of another. This arrangement allowed the software to perform actions while the other was on standby, waiting until the time to take over.
• When sewing, the seamstress placed the needle and thread alternately through the fabric. The back-and-forth motion was smooth and efficient, creating a secure and durable stitch. This task allowed the seamstress to construct beautiful and lasting pieces of clothing and other textile artwork.