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otherwise

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈəðɝˌwaɪz// UK //ˈʌðəwˌaɪz// oth·er·wise General-service

adj. different from what has already been mentioned. You use it to describe a situation or fact that is not the one you just talked about.

adj. describing a state of affairs that is different from the one previously stated or implied. Often follows a linking verb and functions as a complement.


SIMPLE

The evidence suggests the truth is otherwise.

CONTEXTUAL

He claimed to be an expert, but his clumsy performance proved otherwise during the practical exam.

COMPLEX

While the official report insists the transition was seamless, the testimonies of several disgruntled employees suggest the reality was quite otherwise.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English otherwise, othre wise, from Old English on ōþre wīsan (literally “in (on) other/different manner”); equivalent to other + -wise. Compare West Frisian yn oarwei (“otherwise”), Icelandic öðruvísi (“different”).

Usage

Typically follows a linking verb like 'be', 'seem', or 'prove'.

Idioms1 entry

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