or else

Part of Speech:

All (2) Adverb (1) Conjunction (1)

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otherwise adv.
or conj.

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

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.

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or else

The pressure to make precisely the right choice — or else — is what’s gotten society’s bedsheets in a twist.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026

The paper says senior economists are warning that the new prime minister will need to raise taxes, or else risk failing to deliver on his raft of "bolder policy pledges".

From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026

If we must open ourselves up to books, are there any that either ameliorate this danger, or else make reading them worthwhile?

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 19, 2026

Either shares of semiconductors and other AI infrastructure plays would be up, or else it would be the “Magnificent Seven” and everything else.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 16, 2026

"I have some advice for you, Prince of Compliments: You better think a little harder before you open your mouth, or else you'll be Prince of Insults and might get in trouble."

From "Born Behind Bars" by Padma Venkatraman

or else

Example Sentences

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