How Do You Spell OTHERWISE?

Pronunciation: [ˈʌðəwˌa͡ɪz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "otherwise" can be a bit tricky due to the presence of the letter "o" between two "w's". However, the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription provides a helpful breakdown. The first syllable is pronounced as "UTH" (where "U" represents the "uh" sound), while the second syllable is pronounced as "er-wyz" (with "y" representing the "ahy" sound). Therefore, the correct spelling of the word can be easily remembered as "oth->er->wise".

Meaning and Definition
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OTHERWISE Meaning and Definition

  1. Otherwise is an adverb that is frequently used in various contexts to denote a different or alternative possibility, condition, or course of action. It refers to a situation or outcome that differs from what has been stated or implied. It can also convey contrasting information, an alternative viewpoint, or a different manner in which something could occur.

    In relation to contrasting choices or conditions, otherwise implies a divergence from the expected or stated condition. It suggests an alternative option or solution to a particular situation or course of action. For example, if a plan fails, one might say, "We should try otherwise," indicating the need for a different approach or method.

    Similarly, otherwise can serve as a transition word to introduce contrasting ideas or contrasting statements within a conversation. It is employed to signal a shift in thoughts or perspectives. Additionally, otherwise can express the notion of "in other circumstances" or "under different conditions," emphasizing contrasting possibilities.

    Furthermore, otherwise can convey a sense of "in a different way" or "in a different manner" when used to describe an action or behavior. It suggests a variation or alternative to the norm or expected behavior.

    Overall, otherwise serves the purpose of indicating alternative choices, contrasting viewpoints, different outcomes, or alternative ways of doing something. Its versatility allows it to be widely used in various contexts, making it a valuable adverb to express alternative possibilities.

  2. In a different manner; in other respects.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for OTHERWISE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for OTHERWISE

Etymology of OTHERWISE

The word otherwise originated from the combination of two Old English words: othre, meaning other, and wi(se), meaning way or manner. These two words were eventually combined into the Middle English term other-wys, which essentially meant in another way or in a different manner. Over time, it evolved into its modern form, otherwise, retaining its basic meaning of in a different or alternative manner.

Idioms with the word OTHERWISE

  • or otherwise The idiom "or otherwise" is typically used to indicate that something can be accomplished or achieved through any means necessary or in any other way not specifically mentioned. It implies flexibility or alternative options in order to achieve a desired outcome.
  • know otherwise The idiom "know otherwise" means to have a different understanding or belief about a particular situation or person. It implies that one possesses knowledge contradicting commonly held beliefs or assumptions.
  • know different/otherwise "to have knowledge or information that contradicts or disproves something previously believed or assumed"

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