otherwise Definition
- 1in circumstances different from those present or considered; or else
- 2in other respects; apart from that
Using otherwise: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "otherwise" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I must leave now, otherwise I'll be late.
Example
You should study hard, otherwise you won't pass the exam.
Example
She is very talented; otherwise, she wouldn't have been hired.
Example
I don't like spicy food, but otherwise, I enjoy trying new things.
otherwise Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for otherwise
- alternatively
- differently
- elsewise
- or else
- if not
Phrases with otherwise
used to indicate that a description applies equally to the thing mentioned and to other things of the same type
Example
The information contained in this report is confidential and should not be disclosed to anyone, government official or otherwise.
used to indicate that what follows is not an exact quotation but a rough approximation
Example
He said something like, 'I don't want to see you again,' or words to that effect.
used to indicate that what follows is not an exact description but a rough approximation
Example
I need some vegetables, broccoli or something like that.
Origins of otherwise
from Middle English 'other wyes', meaning 'in other ways'
Summary: otherwise in Brief
The term 'otherwise' [ˈʌðəwaɪz] refers to situations different from those present or considered, often used to indicate an alternative or consequence. It can also mean 'in other respects' or 'apart from that.' Examples include 'I must leave now, otherwise I'll be late.' and 'She is very talented; otherwise, she wouldn't have been hired.' 'Otherwise' extends into phrases like 'or otherwise,' indicating a description applies equally to other things of the same type.
