otherwise

adverb

Definition of otherwisenext
as in else
in a different way the candidate was gracious in his defeat, though he clearly wished the election had gone otherwise

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of otherwise The internet may be filled with car buffs trying to convince you the Ferrari Luce is terrible, but the marque now has $40 million that says otherwise. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026 But Allen finding some open space on a play that otherwise closed quickly is not merely a play. — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 16 Aug. 2026 The home plate umpire thought otherwise, but Yan was already midair in celebration. — Scott Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 Aug. 2026 The surgery done on John’s elbow in 1974, and subsequently named after the pitcher, has been performed on countless pitchers as young as high-school age, while extending careers that otherwise would have ended. — Doug Padilla, Oc Register, 16 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for otherwise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for otherwise
  1. else
  2. differently
Adverb
  • And besides that, everybody else benefits from being able to enjoy their special gifts.
    — John Blake, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Or make your toilet more accessible While most little ones feel more comfortable starting out on a potty, some might actually prefer using a regular toilet like everyone else.
    — BestReviews, Mercury News, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of else
Adverb
  • Read on its own, the essay is a reasonable brief for why enterprises should treat this moment differently than the last decade of cybersecurity practice.
    — Ashish Bhatia, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The language of family trusts can be interpreted differently by siblings and their attorneys.
    — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of differently

Browse Nearby Words

other than
otherwise
other woman
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Cite this Entry

“Otherwise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/otherwise. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on otherwise

Nglish: Translation of otherwise for Spanish Speakers

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