alternos

Alternos is a Spanish-language term whose meaning depends on context. Broadly, it denotes people who serve in an alternate or substitute capacity. The word comes from alterno, derived from Latin alter, meaning "other" or "one of two." In everyday usage, alternos may be described as alternates, backups, or deputy members.

In the performing arts, an alterno (alternos) is an understudy who steps in for a principal performer when needed. Theater companies may use alternos to cover roles across performances or seasons, sometimes rotating duties to ensure coverage during absences or vacations.

In politics and governance, "miembros alternos" or "representantes alternos" are substitute or temporary members on councils, boards, or commissions. They may attend meetings, participate in discussions, and vote when regular members are unavailable, or fill vacancies until elections or appointments.

In business, academia, and other organizations, alternos can refer to advisory or observer members on boards, or to staff who work in rotating shifts (horarios alternos) to ensure continuous operations.

Regional usage varies. Alternos are common in Latin American Spanish, where the term emphasizes the supplementary nature of the role. In some contexts, "alternos" also describes backup athletes or players in sports, ready to enter games as substitutes.

See also: alternancia, understudy, deputy, substitute.