Otherwise
/ˈʌðərwaɪz/
Definitions
2 meaningsUnder different circumstances or conditions; in other respects; in another manner.
/ˈʌðərwaɪz/
In different circumstances or if not
You need to call him; otherwise, he'll think you're not coming.
💡 Simply: It means 'if not' or 'in a different way.' Like, 'Eat your vegetables, otherwise you won't get dessert!' or, 'We could go to the park, or otherwise, we could stay home.'
👶 For kids: If something else happens or doesn't happen.
More Examples
She had to leave early; otherwise, she would have stayed.
If you don't complete the assignment, otherwise, you will fail.
How It's Used
"You must study hard; otherwise, you will fail the exam."
"The contract is valid, unless otherwise specified."
In other respects or ways.
/ˈʌðərwaɪz/
In other ways
The project was well-planned, otherwise it was perfect.
💡 Simply: It's like saying, 'Besides that one thing...' or 'In all other ways...' like: 'The movie was a bit slow, but otherwise, it was great!'
👶 For kids: In all the other parts.
More Examples
The food was delicious, otherwise it was too expensive.
How It's Used
"They are, otherwise, very similar."
Idioms & expressions
All things being equal, otherwise
Assuming no other factors change.
"All things being equal, otherwise, we should proceed as planned."
From Middle English *other wise*, from Old English *ōðer wīs* ('in another way').
The word 'otherwise' has been used in English since the 13th century, primarily denoting different conditions.
Memory tip
Think of a different path or situation.