or

• 用于在兩個或多個詞語、短語或句子之間表示選擇、替代或替換的連詞。也可表示大約或不確定。

A coordinating conjunction used to connect two or more alternatives, possibilities, or choices. It presents an option or a substitution between words, phrases, or clauses. It can also indicate an approximation or uncertainty.

1. Choice or alternative between optionsA1informal

   Used to present a choice between two or more possibilities, often in statements, questions, or commands. It implies that only one of the options may be selected or true.

   选择或替代

   • Would you like tea or coffee?
   • You can pay by card or cash.
   • Is he coming today or tomorrow?
   • We can go to the cinema or stay home and watch a movie.
   • Do you want it now or later?

2. Approximation or uncertaintyB1informal

   Used between two numbers or amounts to indicate an approximate quantity, often when the speaker is unsure or does not need to be exact. Common in informal speech.

   约数或不确定

   • I'll be back in two or three minutes.
   • There were ten or twelve people at the meeting.
   • He's thirty or thirty-five years old.
   • It costs five or six dollars.
   • She lives an hour or so away from here.

3. Otherwise / because if notB1informal

   Used to warn or advise that something bad will happen if the first action is not taken. It connects two clauses where the second is a negative consequence of not doing the first.

   否则 / 要不然

   • Hurry up, or you'll miss the bus.
   • Study hard, or you will fail the exam.
   • Put on a jacket, or you'll catch a cold.
   • Leave now, or I'll call the police.
   • Eat your vegetables, or you won't get dessert.

4. Explanation or rephrasingB2formal

   Used to introduce a word or phrase that explains, rephrases, or corrects what was said before. Often interchangeable with 'in other words' or 'that is'.

   解释或改述

   • Botany, or the study of plants, is a fascinating science.
   • He is a cardiologist, or a heart doctor.
   • The car needs a new alternator, or the part that charges the battery.
   • Her hobby is philately, or stamp collecting.
   • We need a proactive solution, or one that prevents problems before they start.