alternations

Noun

alternation (countable and uncountable, plural alternations)

1. The reciprocal succession of (normally two) things in time or place; the act of following and being followed by turns; alternate succession, performance, or occurrence
   • the alternation of day and night
2. The response of the congregation speaking alternately with the minister.
   • There are Anthems to be found amongst them , where every syllable has its just length ; each part of a sentence its proper pause : where the words are not confused by perplexing alternations, or rendered tedious by unnecessary repetitions1795, William Mason, Essays, Historical and Critical, on English Church Music
3. Ablaut.
4. A pattern by which more than one construct is possible, as with "Alice cooked Bob dinner" and "Alice cooked dinner for Bob".
   • dative alternation; locative alternation
5. The "inclusive or" truth function.
6. A sequence that alternates between positive and negative values.

See all 9 meanings of alternation