あるいは
Meanings
1
or; either ... or
usually written using kana alone
Connects two alternatives, often in the pattern AかBか. Note that は is pronounced わ.
Would you like coffee, tea, or juice?
Please contact us by phone or email.
2
usually written using kana alone
Expresses uncertainty or a tentative suggestion; often used at the beginning of a sentence.
Perhaps he has already gone home.
Maybe you could try a different method.
3
some ... and others ...; sometimes ... and at other times ...
usually written using kana alone
Used in the paired pattern あるいは…あるいは… to list contrasting examples or alternating states.
Sometimes crying, sometimes laughing, they kept talking.
Some flags were red and others blue, fluttering in the wind.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉か、あるいは〈物〉かeither A or B
Please contact me either by phone or by email.
- あるいは〈事〉かもしれないit might perhaps be that ...
Perhaps he won't come.
- あるいは〈事〉、あるいは〈事〉sometimes X, sometimes Y (listing alternating states)
Sometimes I walk to school, other times I go by bicycle.