The term 'LATER ALTERNATIVE' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: SOONER (6 letters), SAYONARA (8 letters), and TATA (4 letters). SOONER is an adverb meaning 'before the expected or usual time, or in the near future'. SAYONARA is a Japanese word meaning 'GOODBYE' or 'FAREWELL'. TATA is an informal way of saying GOODBYE in many languages, including Hindi. Together, these three words form the phrase 'LATER ALTERNATIVE', which can be interpreted as a polite way of saying GOODBYE while suggesting that there may be a chance to meet again in the future.