|
or [ awr, unstressed ər ] CORE MEANING: a conjunction used to link two or more alternatives. In a series of alternatives, it is usually used only before the last alternative.
  Which do you prefer, butter or low-fat spread?
You can accept, refuse, or ignore the offer, as you see fit. |
conj |
|
| Definition: |
| |
1. following "either" or "whether": used to join two alternatives when the first is introduced by "either" or "whether"
Either you typed the wrong name, or something is wrong with the equipment.
|
2. indicating approximation: used between two numbers to indicate an approximate quantity or to imply a few of something
Hit the return key every three or four seconds until you get a greeting message.
|
3. rephrasing statement: used to introduce a rephrasing synonym or correction of a statement just made
fetal oxygen deprivation, or hypoxia
German measles, or rubella
|
4. otherwise: used to give an explanation of a statement just made
You'd better leave or you'll be late.
|
5. whether or either: a poetic word for "either" or "whether," preceding the first of two alternatives, with "or" also preceding the second alternative
(
archaic or literary
)
|
| [12th century. Contraction of other] |
|
or other used to show that the preceding words you use are not exact or definite
For some reason or other, the house was crowded that night.
|
or so approximately
I haven't seen her for a year or so.
|
|
