adv. [f. prec. + -LY2.]

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  1.  In an alternative manner, in a way that offers a choice between two.

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1590.  Swinburn, Testaments, 249. When the testator dooth appoint executors … alternatiuely, or disiunctiuely, as I make A. or B. my executor.

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1726.  Ayliffe, Parerg., 75. An appeal alternatively made may be tollerated by the Civil Law as valid.

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1877.  Lytteil, Landmarks, I. iv. 34. The name of MacCamalain is used alternatively with Ballantyne.

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  † 2.  Alternately, by turns. Obs.

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1581.  Savile, Ende of Nero (1591), 53. Six [tribunes] executing their charge alternativelie, two at one time for two months.

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1601.  Holland, Pliny (1634), II. 627. Hieracites changeth colour all whole alternatiuely by turns.

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1686.  Lond. Gaz., mmcxcv/1. The Dyet should meet Alternatively in Poland and Lythuania.

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1751.  Stack, in Phil. Trans., XLVII. 87. The muscle … was contracted and relaxed alternatively.

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1869.  Mrs. Wood, Rol. Yorke, I. 101. Striking his two forefingers alternatively on the table’s edge.

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  † 3.  On two sides alternately. Obs. rare.

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1725.  Bradley, Fam. Dict., Aristolochy, a Plant … cloathed at certain Distances, or alternatively, with Leaves.

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  † 4.  Reciprocally. Obs. rare.

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1667.  Marvell, Corr., 78, Wks. 1872–5, II. 222. The impositions which ly alternatively upon the importations of each others commodityes.

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