GrammarJLPT N3
or
Conjunction

Also written as 若しくは

Definitions

  1. 1. or
  2. 2. otherwise
This conjunction means "or" or "alternatively," used to present a choice between two or more options. It is slightly more formal than または and is often found in written Japanese, official documents, and careful speech. For example, it might appear when listing acceptable options or conditions.

Grammar

Grammar lesson content not found for this point.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

I messaged in: "I'm taking today off — or maybe just coming in the afternoon."

Sentence 2

The terms of the deal will need to either stay as-is or be renegotiated.

Sentence 3

"That's a joke, right? Or are you serious?" he said with a smile.

Sentence 4

That comment was either a joke or a dig — come on!

Sentence 5

Did you leave the key by the door? Or was it on the desk?