Meaning & usage
あるいは connects two alternatives in the pattern A, あるいは B, meaning or or either A or B. It can join nouns, phrases, or whole clauses, and it can also appear at the start of a sentence to offer another possibility. When paired with expressions of uncertainty like かもしれない, it adds the sense of perhaps or maybe. It sounds formal and is common in writing, announcements, and polite explanations.
Example sentences 5
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あるいはそれは本当かもしれない。
Perhaps that's true.
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これらは一家族あるいは一族を表すものである。
These figures are signs of a family or clan.
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ガスで調理しますか、あるいは電気ですか。
Do you cook by gas or electricity?
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手荷物の中に、液体あるいは鋭利なものは入っていませんか？
Are there any liquids or sharp objects in your luggage?
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残りの６億人にとって、英語は第二言語あるいは外国語になっています。
For the other 600 million people, English is either a second language or a foreign language.
In past JLPT papers
This came up in 2 past exam questions.
