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REFERENCE

otherwise

adv. · adj.
US //ˈəðɝˌwaɪz// UK //ˈʌðəwˌaɪz// oth·er·wise
  1. 1 or else (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    you use this to say what will happen if a specific condition is not met.

    used as a conjunctive adverb to indicate the result or consequence if a preceding statement or condition is not fulfilled.

    Example

    You should leave now, otherwise you will miss your train.

    Example

    The government must implement these reforms immediately; otherwise, the economic recovery will likely stall before the end of the fiscal year.

    Usage

    Usually placed at the start of a second clause to show a negative consequence.
    • or else
    • if not
  2. 2 in other respects (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    except for the thing you just mentioned.

    referring to all other factors or qualities apart from the one specifically mentioned.

    Example

    The phone has a small scratch, but it is otherwise in perfect condition.

    Example

    The witness provided an otherwise credible account of the events, though her memory of the specific timing remained somewhat hazy.

    Usage

    Often placed before an adjective to qualify it.
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  1. 3 differently (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    in a different way from what was expected or mentioned.

    in a different manner or under different circumstances.

    Example

    I wanted to help, but the boss decided otherwise.

    Example

    Although the initial evidence suggested a mechanical failure, the forensic report proved otherwise.

    Usage

    Commonly follows verbs like 'think', 'decide', 'say', or 'prove'.
  2. 4 different (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    different from what you might think or what has been said.

    of a different nature or character than what is supposed or stated.

    Example

    The truth is often otherwise.

    Example

    He claimed to be a wealthy businessman, but the reality was quite otherwise.

    Teacher's tip

    This adjective use is quite formal; in everyday speech, people usually just say 'different'.
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”).

Idioms1 entry

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