or else

Used to introduce another choice or what will happen if something is not done.

• Hurry, or else we will be late.
• Take a taxi, or else walk home.
• She needs directions, or else she will get lost.

How to use it: clause + or else + clause (We can cook at home, or else we can eat out.)

Similar words: otherwise, alternatively

Common phrases: or else wait, or else leave, or else tomorrow

Used after an order to warn that something bad will happen if it is not obeyed.

• Be quiet, or else!
• He told me to leave, or else.
• She shouted, "Return my money, or else!"

How to use it: command + or else (Give me the keys, or else!)

Common phrases: stop or else, leave or else, apologize or else

Used after a hope to suggest that things are bad if the hope is not true.

• I hope he is safe, or else.
• She hoped the message had arrived, or else.
• I hope we locked the door, or else!

How to use it: I hope + clause + or else (I hope they caught the last train, or else.)

Common phrases: hope so or else, he's safe or else