Using "or" to connect words and sentences

Master the use of or and either... or to give clear choices, connect words, phrases, and full sentences, even in negative sentences. With practical workplace examples like Zoom, Google Docs, Slack, and Google Drive, you will make decisions and communicate rules with confidence.

How does or express choices in sentences?

We use or to show a choice between two or more options. It can connect a sentence with a word or a phrase, and it can also link two full sentences. Remember the sentence parts mentioned: a person or thing doing an action, the verb, and the complement.

How do you connect words with or?

• Jane uses a tablet or a laptop.
• For the project we need a logo, a banner, or a short video.
• We can order pizza, a salad, or a sandwich for lunch.

How do you connect phrases with or?

• I will call you or send a message.
• You can have online or presential classes.

How do you connect sentences with or?

• I will finish this task today, or I will do it tomorrow.
• We can start the meeting now, or we can wait five minutes.

You can also use or in negative sentences to deny multiple options.

• He doesn't use the chat or email at work.
• We are not working on Monday or Tuesday.
• I don't have time for a call or a meeting tomorrow.

When should you use either... or for exclusive choice?

Use either... or when only one option is possible, not both. This shows a clear, exclusive choice.

How does either... or limit options?

• The team will either meet today or tomorrow.
• You can either send the file by email or by chat.
• We can use either Slack or email. Don't use both at the same time.

Key vocabulary to remember includes either... or, options, both, and choose. These phrases help you set clear expectations in schedules, tools, and communication.

What real-world tools and rules reinforce or?

A workplace conversation highlights how or and either... or guide tool choices and rules. These examples make the grammar concrete and memorable.

Which tools are allowed or not allowed?

• Create documents: use Notion or Google Docs.
• Messaging: use either Slack or email. Do not use both at the same time.
• Meetings: use Zoom or Google Meet. Both are fine.
• Not allowed for documents: do not use Notepad or sticky notes.
• Not allowed when joining meetings: do not join late or without your camera on.
• File sharing: share files on Google Drive or Dropbox.
• Not allowed for sharing files: do not use personal email or USB drives.

Have a question about using or or either... or? Share your example in the comments and get feedback.