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Showing results for or else.
Definitions

or else

ADVERB
otherwise
Synonyms
STRONG
differently
WEAK
any other way at another time contrarily diversely elseways if not in different circumstances on the other hand or then under other conditions variously
CONJUNCTION
or
Synonyms
WEAK
as a choice as a substitute as an alternative conversely either in other words in preference to in turn on the other hand or but or only preferentially
Antonyms
WEAK
neither nor without choice

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And the reality is that he needs answers quickly or else those unwanted records may no longer be his only worry.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“We have to protect it or else we lose the art form.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

“I had to create this character or else I was going to become him.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

Meals that can be eaten in small portions, over time, without urgency — nothing that demands, You must eat this all right now or else — are ideal.

From Salon • Jan. 19, 2026

I just needed to laugh about something or else I’m going to start crying.

From "How to Disappear Completely" by Ali Standish