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or
/ɔːr/
used to connect words or phrases to indicate alternatives
Would you like tea or coffee?
The speaker is offering two drink options.
general
A conjunction used to present alternatives or choices between two or more items
You can pay with cash or credit card.
The speaker is indicating two acceptable payment methods.
The weather will be sunny or cloudy tomorrow.
The speaker is uncertain about the exact weather conditions.
Often used in questions, conditional statements, and lists to show options.
general
Used to indicate a possibility or uncertainty
He might be at home or at work.
The speaker is unsure of the person's exact location.
Can imply doubt or lack of certainty.
Collocations
either...orused to present two clear alternativesor elseused to introduce a consequence if the first option is not chosen
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Choosing between 'or' and 'and'
'Or' is used for alternatives, while 'and' is used for additions.
Gold Rule
Correct usage in questions
In questions, 'or' is often used to offer choices, e.g., 'Do you want tea or coffee?'
Word Origin
From Middle English 'or', from Old English 'oþþe', from Proto-Germanic '*auþai' (other).
Usage Notes
In formal writing, 'or' is often used to present alternatives, while 'either...or' is used for binary choices.
English Dictionary