ou — meaning in English

English meaning

• either det One or the other of two options; whichever of two.
• nay adv An old-fashioned or formal way to say "no."
• or conjunction Used to link two or more alternatives, showing that any one of them could be true or chosen.

Senses

ou is used for these senses in English:

• either Introduces the first of two (or occasionally more) options or possibilities, the second (or last) of which is introduced by “or”.
• nay (archaic, otherwise, jocular) Or rather, or should I say; moreover (introducing a stronger and more appropriate expression than the preceding one). [from 16th c.]

either — full definition

1. det One or the other of two options; whichever of two.
2. det Each of two; both.
3. conj Used to introduce the first of two or more alternatives, paired with "or."
4. adv Used after a negative statement to add that the same is true of another thing, similar to "too."

nay — full definition

1. adv An old-fashioned or formal way to say "no."
2. noun A vote against a proposal.

Related Portuguese words