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alternato

alternating

adjective al-ter-NAH-toh Rare
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Also means

alternated

Usage Note

Alternato is the past participle of alternare used as an adjective, meaning 'alternating' or 'in alternation.' It is common in technical and musical contexts: ritmo alternato (alternating rhythm), corrente alternata (alternating current, though the standard form there is alternata). Do not confuse with alterno, which means 'alternating' as an inherent property.

Examples

"I colori sono disposti in modo alternato."

Natural Translation

The colours are arranged in an alternating pattern.

Literal Translation

The colours are arranged in manner alternated.

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