またはor
または is "or": one choice or the other. It belongs to forms, notices and instructions. In conversation, "or" is か.
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How to form it
A または B
The は is said "wa". Between two nouns nothing else is needed: 電話またはメール. Longer choices usually get a comma: 食後すぐ、または….
- Before and after
- Choices of the same kind: two things, two ways, two times.
- Tone
- Exact and impersonal.
- Where you'll meet it
- Application forms, websites, notices, instructions, contracts. Out loud, in announcements.
In use
For breakfast, you can choose bread or rice.
Enter your membership number or the email address you registered.
Take this medicine right after a meal, or at the time your doctor tells you to.
Talking, people say か
Between friends または sounds like reading the rules aloud. The everyday "or" between two nouns is か.
Please write in black or blue pen.
Printed on a form.
Please write in black or blue pen.
Said by the person at the counter.
Close neighbours
それともN3
The "or" of a question that offers a choice. Said all the time. または is the "or" of statements, instructions and forms.
Are you going by train, or by bus?
あるいはN3
A more formal または. It also means "or perhaps", when you are guessing.
Please come to the venue by train or bus.
またN4
One kana shorter and a different word: "also", or "again".
You can borrow books at the library. You can also read newspapers and magazines.
Check yourself
1You are in a café with a friend. Which sounds natural?
Choose an answer to see why.
2What does this notice mean?
月曜日または
Choose an answer to see why.
More detail
又は
In laws, contracts and official forms it is often written with a kanji, 又は. It is read the same and means the same.
More sentences
Please submit the application form by mail or email.
The applicant or a parent or guardian should sign.
Applicants may mail their work or bring it to the reception desk themselves.
There may be one answer or several.