Formal:
* Poltroon: A cowardly person.
* Craven: A contemptibly fearful person.
* Dastard: A cowardly and treacherous person.
* Timorous: Easily frightened.
* Pusillanimous: Lacking courage or determination.
Informal:
* Chicken: A cowardly person (slang).
* Scaredy-cat: A cowardly person (slang).
* Yellow-bellied: A cowardly person (slang).
The best alternative will depend on the specific situation and the tone you want to convey.