Definition

1. Conjunction:

   • If not; otherwise: Used to introduce a negative conditional clause or a consequence that will occur if the preceding condition is not met. It connects two statements, where the second is the result of the first not happening.

2. Phrase (used as an adverb):

   • Or else: Functions as a warning or strong suggestion about the negative outcome of not following an instruction.

Usage Examples

• Conjunction:

  • Chúng ta phải đi ngay, nếu không sẽ muộn. (We must leave now, otherwise we will be late.)
  • Hãy mặc áo ấm vào, nếu không bạn sẽ bị cảm. (Put on a warm coat, if not you will catch a cold.)

• Phrase (as a warning):

  • Trả lời câu hỏi đi, nếu không! (Answer the question, or else!)
  • Nộp bài đúng giờ, nếu không sẽ bị điểm trừ. (Submit the assignment on time, or else you will get a penalty.)

Advanced Usage

• "nếu không thì": This is a fuller form, where "thì" (then) makes the conditional structure more explicit. It translates to "if that is not the case, then..." or "otherwise, then...".
  • Anh phải xin lỗi, nếu không thì cô ấy sẽ giận. (You must apologize, otherwise she will be angry.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bằng không (conjunction): Otherwise, or else. A direct synonym often used in formal writing or instructions.

  • Hãy tuân thủ luật lệ, bằng không sẽ bị phạt. (Please obey the rules, otherwise you will be fined.)

• Không thì (conjunction): Or else, otherwise. A more colloquial and shortened form.

  • Đi nhanh lên, không thì tàu chạy mất. (Hurry up, or else the train will leave.)

Synonyms

• Otherwise: Introduces an alternative consequence.
• Or else: Used to indicate a threatening or negative alternative.
• If not: The direct conditional translation.

Related Idioms

• Nếu không liệu hồn: A strong, threatening idiom meaning "or else watch out" or "or else you'll be sorry." It intensifies the warning.
  • Bắt tay vào việc đi, nếu không liệu hồn! (Get to work, or else you'll be sorry!)

1. If not; other wise