要不
我们去看电影，要不就在家看电视。
Let's go to the movies, or else we can stay home and watch TV.
Used to suggest an alternative or a different option.
要不我们改天再聊吧。
Or else we can talk another day.
你可以吃苹果，要不就吃香蕉。
You can eat an apple, or else a banana.
Often used in spoken Mandarin to propose an alternative without implying preference.
Otherwise, if not.
快点儿，要不就赶不上火车了！
Hurry up, or else we'll miss the train!
Expresses a consequence if the alternative is not chosen.
Pro Tip
Common Mistake
Avoid using '要不' at the start of a sentence in formal writing. Use '否则' or '不然' instead for a more formal tone.
Gold Rule
Usage Context
'要不' is best for informal suggestions or casual alternatives. For formal writing, prefer '或者' or '否则'.
Word Origin
Composed of '要' (want/need) and '不' (not), originally implying 'if not wanted' but evolved into a conjunction suggesting alternatives.
Usage Notes
Common in both spoken and written Mandarin. '要不' is slightly more casual than '或者' or '不然'. Often used in suggestions or warnings.