o
"or" — used to connect alternatives or choices
Definitions
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1
Indicates a choice between two or more alternatives
“Vuoi il caffè o il tè per colazione stamattina?”
Do you want coffee or tea for breakfast this morning?
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2
Used to rephrase or clarify, meaning 'that is' or 'in other words'
“Il gatto, o meglio il micio, dorme tutto il giorno.”
The cat, or rather the kitty, sleeps all day.
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3
Introduces a warning or consequence, similar to 'or else'
“Studia di più, o non passerai l'esame domani.”
Study more, or you won't pass the exam tomorrow.
Word forms
- Usage
- Before a word starting with 'o', it can become 'od' for euphony, though this is now rare and mostly literary (e.g. 'od ora').
Very common and used constantly in everyday speech and writing, just like English "or".