Non Chicken Question for American Members!

[avroncotton]

This is gonna sound strange but I have this Question and I thought to myself I need to ask an American, then I thought of you guys: I have been reading a John Grisham Novel ( The Runaway Jury) and in it it speaks of "Alternates" and I remember not understanding the use of the word in 'Top Gun'. Where they are in the briefing room and Ice-Man says: "The plaque for the alternates if outside the ladies' room". I looked in the dictionary but it only gives the normal meaning. And I thought there must be an American meaning to this.

Thanks

Tony

Australia:/

 

[tx_dane_mom]

Hmm you got me, as far as what you typed from Top Gun, that doesn't make much sense to me either really

Alternate to me means like....another option, and extra choice, 'an alternate ending.'
That help any?
Kristi

 

[unionwirewoman]

I guess I'm going to have to watch that movie again ,because I can't remember that scene . It's probably (knowing men ) some sort of a derogatory remark like " if you're man enough " .

 

[DuckLady]

It meant (if I remember) the runner up to whatever they were competing for. The winner was in top spots on the aircraft and the alternates were the runners up who would take the winners place in case of inability to fly.

 

[gritsar]

Actually in that movie they were using the word alternates as sarcasm. Alternate meaning second place. As was also said in the movie, at Top Gun School, there is no second best.

 

[mlheran]

"Alternates" in a jury are people who take the place of a juror who for whatever reason is dismissed from service. The number of alternates varies with the severity and length of the trial. They are present throughout the whole trial but do not deliberate with the other jury members (unless one is dismissed). So basically, it's someone who takes someone else's place.

 

[avroncotton]

Thanks for all the help.