nor
naw
Nor (conjunction) means used to link a second negative statement to a first, meaning "and not.". Example: “She neither smiled nor said a word as she walked past.”
conjunction
1
Used to link a second negative statement to a first, meaning "and not."
"She neither smiled nor said a word as she walked past."
"Nor did I stop to think, but ran."
"They are happy, nor need we worry."
"He didn't call, nor did he text."
"She has neither the time nor the money for a holiday."
How to use nor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA joining word used after a negative to add another negative point, usually paired with "neither."
Common mistake
Use "nor" after a negative clause (not, never, neither) — don't use it to join two positive statements.
Common pairings
neither...nor
not...nor
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She neither smiled _____ said a word as she walked past.
Etymology
From Middle English "nauther," a contraction related to "neither" — by surface analysis simply "not" plus "or."
Synonyms
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and not
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “nor” mean?
The word “nor” means used to link a second negative statement to a first, meaning "and not.". In plain terms, a joining word used after a negative to add another negative point, usually paired with "neither.".
How do you pronounce “nor”?
“Nor” is pronounced naw (/nɔɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “nor” in a sentence?
Here is “nor” used in a sentence: “He didn't call, nor did he text.”
What part of speech is “nor”?
“Nor” is a conjunction.
Where does the word “nor” come from?
The word “nor” comes from Middle English. From Middle English "nauther," a contraction related to "neither" — by surface analysis simply "not" plus "or.".
Is “nor” a common word?
“Nor” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between 'nor' and 'or'?
'Or' presents alternatives in a neutral or positive way: 'tea or coffee?' 'Nor' is its negative counterpart, used to add a second negative idea: 'I don't drink tea, nor coffee.' In short, 'or' links choices, while 'nor' continues a negative statement, usually after 'neither' or another negative word.
How do you use 'neither...nor'?
'Neither' and 'nor' work as a pair to join two negative options: 'Neither the manager nor the staff were informed.' 'Neither' introduces the first item and 'nor' the second. It means that both things are equally untrue or absent. Keep the verb agreeing with the noun closest to it.
Can you start a sentence with 'nor'?
Yes. Beginning a sentence with 'nor' is correct and often adds emphasis, particularly in formal or literary writing: 'She never complained. Nor did she ask for help.' When 'nor' opens a clause like this, the word order inverts, so the verb comes before the subject, as in 'nor did she.'
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