or else

or else

1. Otherwise; or as a consequence. We need to book our tickets soon, or else start looking into renting a car. Eat your vegetables, or else you're not getting any dessert!
2. Or suffer some unspecified consequence. (Used as a threat.) Be there at noon with $5,000 in cash, or else!
See also: else
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

or else

or suffer the consequences. (An inspecific threat of bad consequences.) Do what I tell you, or else. Don't be late for work, or else!
See also: else
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

or else

1. Otherwise, in different circumstances, as in Present your case now, or else you won't have a chance. [c. 1300]
2. Regardless of any extenuating circumstances, no matter what, as in Be there on time or else! [Second half of 1800s]
See also: else
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

or else


1 used to introduce the second of two possibilities: I can’t get through to Sally. She’s out, or else she’s decided not to answer the telephone.
2 (informal) used to threaten or warn somebody: You’d better clean up this mess, or else!
See also: else
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

or else

1. Used to indicate an alternative: We need to eat the leftovers or else buy more food.
2. Used to indicate negative consequences that will result if an action is not followed: We need to pay the bill, or else the electricity will be shut off.
3. Used after a command or demand to make a threat: Be there on time, or else!
See also: else
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • in consequence of (something)
  • in consequence
  • What if I don't?
  • And (what) if I don't?
  • territory
  • come with the territory
  • come/go with the territory
  • go with the territory
  • go with the territory, to
  • be of the opinion that...