a viable alternative — a workable or practical option
collocationC1IELTS 7+neutraloccasional
an option or solution that is realistic, practical, and likely to succeed, especially when compared to other possibilities that may not be as effective or achievable.
Say it like a native
Textbook We require a feasible and practicable substitute course of action.
Native We need a viable alternative.
'Feasible and practicable substitute course of action' is bloated; 'a viable alternative' is enough.
Pattern: a viable alternative to [noun/gerund]
In use
- For people who can't drive, cycling is a viable alternative to commuting by car.work
- In my opinion, investing in renewable energy is a viable alternative to relying on fossil fuels, as it is both sustainable and increasingly affordable.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ a viable alternative of the current system.
✓ a viable alternative to the current system.
'An alternative TO something', not 'of'.
Common collocations
a viable alternative to— to, offer, no, provide
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'an alternative' (any other option), 'a viable alternative' stresses that the option is realistic and can actually be implemented successfully.