exclusivealternative
nounUK /ɪkˈskluːsɪv ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/
US /ɪkˈskluːsɪv ɔːlˈtɜːrnətɪv/
A choice where you can only pick one thing and not the other.
Choosing between the beach and the mountains was an exclusive alternative, so we could only go to one.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A situation in which two possibilities cannot both be true or happen at the same time.
The two plans were exclusive alternatives, so the committee had to reject one.
3. A single remaining option after all others have been ruled out.
With the last train cancelled, the exclusive alternative was to take a taxi.
4. A choice that excludes any middle ground or compromise.
The vote presented an exclusive alternative: accept the offer fully or walk away.