or else
Idioms-
Otherwise, in different circumstances, as in Present your case now, or else you won't have a chance . [c. 1300]
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Regardless of any extenuating circumstances, no matter what, as in Be there on time or else! [Second half of 1800s]
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.
Victor Hugo once remarked that history must neglect many particulars of the past, or else “the infinity would overwhelm it.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
MLB rules stipulate that batters must be alert and engaged with the pitcher when the clock reaches eight seconds or else they will receive a strike.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
However, as C.K.’s supporters love to point out, he was never charged with anything, and even he knows he’d better mind that gap or else.
From Salon ● Jul. 3, 2026
I think he procrastinates because he either doesn’t want to run errands for his 93-year-old mother or else he needs to pick up his mail.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 6, 2026
“Either I’m out of my noodle or else that’s bacon I smell, Dallas. Bacon.”
From "Ruby Holler" by Sharon Creech
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
