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or

A1
conjunction

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ˈɔː/

US

  • /ˈɔr/
  • /ɜr/

Description

"Or" presents a choice between options. "Do you want coffee or tea?" It is like saying "this one or that one." You use it when something can go one way or another, often with the idea that one choice will happen, not both.

It also appears in warnings and results: "Hurry up, or you'll miss the bus." Here, it links one action to what may happen next. It is a small connector, but it often marks a clear split in the road.

Examples

  1. 1

    Simple choice

    Would you like tea or coffee?

  2. 2

    Scheduling options

    We can meet on Monday, Tuesday, or Friday.

  3. 3

    Alternative actions

    Call me or send a message when you get there.

  4. 4

    Location choice

    Is your apartment on the second floor or the third floor?

  5. 5

    Either-or choice

    You can either stay here or come with us.

    • Pattern

      either ... or ...

      used to present two choices clearly

  6. 6

    Negative list

    I don't eat meat or fish.

    • Grammar

      In negative sentences, or often means "and not" for the second item too.

  7. 7

    Consequence warning

    Wear a coat, or you'll get cold.

    • Pattern

      do something, or ...

      if you do not do it, something bad may happen

  8. 8

    Strong warning

    Apologize to her, or else she may not speak to you again.

    • Phrase

      or else

      used to warn about what will happen if someone does not do something

  9. 9

    Approximate time

    The meeting lasted an hour or so.

    • Phrase

      or so

      about; approximately

  10. 10

    Vague suggestion

    We could watch a movie or something.

    • Phrase

      or something

      used when you are not sure, or when the exact idea is not important

  11. 11

    Regardless

    I'll finish the report today, whether or not I get help.

    • Phrase

      whether or not

      it does not matter if something happens

  12. 12

    Correction

    I need to leave now, or rather, I should have left ten minutes ago.

    • Phrase

      or rather

      used to correct or make what you just said more exact

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • ornounconjunction