otherwise; or (indicating a choice)
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesconjunction
otherwise; or else; if not
Used to introduce the consequence if a previous suggestion or condition is not met. Often interchangeable with '不然' and '要不然'.
We need to leave quickly, otherwise we'll miss the train.
You should call to confirm first, or else they might not be prepared.
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Put on more clothes, or you'll catch a cold.
From Shanghai to Wuhan, you can take a Yangtze River ship, or else you can take a detour by train.
conjunction
either... or...; indicating a choice between alternatives
Used to present two or more alternative options. Often repeated in the structure '要不...，要不...' (either... or...).
This afternoon we can either go see a movie, or go stroll in the park.
You can either have coffee or tea, choose one.
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One person needs to go to today's meeting, either you go or I go.
For the weekend we're planning either hiking or having a barbecue.