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

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.

Without electricity, the cellular connection is weak or else altogether absent.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

Either the people making that argument are really, really stupid, or else they think the rest of us are.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

"They gnaw everything except metal. Because of the mice, we had to eat all food products except canned food quickly, or else the mice would destroy them all."

From BBC • May 17, 2026

Most members of his Cabinet were forced out under pressure — fired, in other words — or else they resigned in protest.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2026

Either I’m finally going senile, or else it’s my mind’s way of coping with being entirely unchallenged in the present.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

or else

Example Sentences

Related Words