Nor: meaning, definitions and examples

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nor

 

[ nɔː ]

Conjunction / Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Conjunction

connecting words

used before the second or further of two or more alternatives (the first being introduced by a negative such as 'neither' or 'not')

Synonyms

neither, or

Examples of usage

  • nor I nor he will be there
  • it was neither good nor bad
  • not a painter nor a sculptor
Context #2 | Adverb

used in negative phrases

used to introduce a further negative statement

Synonyms

neither, nor yet

Examples of usage

  • they swear they will not comply, nor will they allow inspections
  • nor was she aware of the danger

Translations

Translations of the word "nor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 північ

🇮🇳 उत्तर

🇩🇪 Norden

🇮🇩 utara

🇺🇦 північ

🇵🇱 północ

🇯🇵 北 (きた, kita)

🇫🇷 nord

🇪🇸 norte

🇹🇷 kuzey

🇰🇷 북 (buk)

🇸🇦 شمال (shamal)

🇨🇿 sever

🇸🇰 sever

🇨🇳 北 (běi)

🇸🇮 sever

🇮🇸 norður

🇰🇿 солтүстік (soltüstik)

🇬🇪 ჩრდილოეთი (chrdioloeti)

🇦🇿 şimal

🇲🇽 norte

Etymology

The word 'nor' originated in Middle English as a combination of 'ne' (not) and 'or' (either). It has been used in English grammar for centuries to indicate a negative alternative or to introduce a further negative statement. The usage of 'nor' has evolved over time to become an important conjunction in English language, especially in formal writing and speaking.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #427, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.