Else: meaning, definitions and examples

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else

[ɛls ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a different way

Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.

Synonyms

alternatively, otherwise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
else	Used to indicate an alternative or a different option when the current choice is not suitable. Is there anything else you need? We could go somewhere else if this place is too crowded.
otherwise	Used to indicate what would happen if a condition is not met, often implying a warning or consequence. You need to study hard. Otherwise, you might fail the exam. Wear a coat; otherwise, you'll catch a cold.
alternatively	Used to introduce another option or possibility, often in formal or written communication. We could go to the museum. Alternatively, we could visit the park. You can either submit the form online. Alternatively, you may mail it directly to the office.

Word

Description / Examples

else

Used to indicate an alternative or a different option when the current choice is not suitable.

Is there anything else you need?
We could go somewhere else if this place is too crowded.

otherwise

Used to indicate what would happen if a condition is not met, often implying a warning or consequence.

You need to study hard. Otherwise, you might fail the exam.
Wear a coat; otherwise, you'll catch a cold.

alternatively

Used to introduce another option or possibility, often in formal or written communication.

We could go to the museum. Alternatively, we could visit the park.
You can either submit the form online. Alternatively, you may mail it directly to the office.

Examples of usage

He believed in a different way, but it was not meant to offend anyone.
I thought she was happy, but else she seemed quite sad.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

additional

In addition; more.

Synonyms

additional, further.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
else	Use 'else' when referring to something different or another option or person in addition to what has been mentioned. Do you want anything else? If not me, then who else?
additional	Use 'additional' when referring to something that is more or extra to what already exists or has been provided. We need additional resources to complete this project There are additional fees for late payments
further	Use 'further' when talking about more distance, whether physical or metaphorical, or to discuss more details or an extended period of time related to what has been mentioned. We need to discuss this matter further The store is further down the road

Word

Description / Examples

else

Use 'else' when referring to something different or another option or person in addition to what has been mentioned.

Do you want anything else? If not me, then who else?

additional

Use 'additional' when referring to something that is more or extra to what already exists or has been provided.

We need additional resources to complete this project
There are additional fees for late payments

further

Use 'further' when talking about more distance, whether physical or metaphorical, or to discuss more details or an extended period of time related to what has been mentioned.

We need to discuss this matter further
The store is further down the road

Examples of usage

Would you like anything else to eat?
There is nothing else I can add to the conversation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'else' originates from Old English 'elles,' which means 'otherwise' or 'in addition.'
Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'aliz,' highlighting its long-standing usage in language.
The term has been part of the English language for over a thousand years, evolving in spelling and usage.

Usage in Programming

'Else' is commonly used in programming to define alternative actions when certain conditions aren't met, such as in 'if-else' statements.
Its logic helps programmers efficiently structure decision-making processes in code.
Many programming languages leverage 'else' to simplify and clarify code, enhancing readability.

Literature

The word appears frequently in literature to signify choice and possibilities, creating tension in narratives.
Famous literary works often use 'else' in dialogues to express characters' uncertainties and decisions.
Poets and writers use it to explore the themes of alternative realities and choices in storytelling.

Common Expressions

'What else?' is a popular phrase used to encourage more information or options in conversations.
'Someone else' denotes a different person, emphasizing individuality in discussions.
'Anything else?' is often used as a way to check completeness or gather additional needs.

Philosophy

In philosophical discussions, 'else' can be pivotal when debating the existence of multiple possibilities or alternatives.
It challenges thinkers to consider what lies beyond the current situation or thought.
Philosophers might explore ideas of identity and choice through the lens of 'else,' questioning what different paths entail.

Translations

Translations of the word "else" in other languages:

🇵🇹 senão

🇮🇳 अन्यथा

🇩🇪 ansonsten

🇮🇩 jika tidak

🇺🇦 інакше

🇵🇱 inaczej

🇯🇵 そうでなければ

🇫🇷 sinon

🇪🇸 de lo contrario

🇹🇷 aksi takdirde

🇰🇷 그렇지 않으면

🇸🇦 وإلا

🇨🇿 jinak

🇸🇰 inak

🇨🇳 否则

🇸🇮 drugače

🇮🇸 annars

🇰🇿 басқа жағдайда

🇬🇪 სხვა შემთხვევაში

🇦🇿 başqa halda

🇲🇽 de lo contrario

Word Frequency Rank

At #830 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
827 seven
828 caused
829 understanding
830 else
831 text
832 relative
833 moved
...