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else

adv. manner
A1 Beginner Oxford US //ˈɛɫs// UK //ˈɛls// else General-service

adv. in addition to or different from what you have already mentioned. You use it with words like 'something', 'anywhere', or 'who' to talk about other options.

adv. in addition to or different from the person, place, or thing already specified. Typically functions as a post-positive modifier following indefinite pronouns or interrogative words.


SIMPLE

Is there anything else you need from the shop?

CONTEXTUAL

If the manager is busy, we will have to ask someone else for help with the refund.

COMPLEX

The witness claimed to have seen the suspect at the station, but everyone else in the waiting room insisted that the platform had been entirely deserted at that hour.

Origin

* As an English surname, spelling variant of Ell. As a north German surname, of Low German origin, from Proto-West Germanic aliʀu (“alder”), comparable to Dutch els.

Usage

Always follows the word it modifies (e.g., 'somewhere else', 'who else') rather than preceding it.

Pitfall

I want else somethingI want something elseElse must be placed immediately after the pronoun or interrogative word it modifies.

Idioms2 entries

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