Or Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Or, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Or?

Denotes an option or alternative between two things.

History and Meaning of Or

The term "or" has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled "oþþe" and pronounced similarly to the modern version. The word has traditionally been used to denote an option or alternative between two things. In legal contexts, the word carries significant weight, as it is often used to create choices between legal options.

Examples of Or

  1. "You may pay the fine, or contest the citation in court."
  2. "The tenant must either vacate the premises, or pay the overdue rent."
  3. "The accused may plead guilty, or not guilty."
  4. "You can choose to receive dividends in cash, or in stock options."
  5. "Customers can select their preferred shipping method: express or standard."

Legal Terms Similar to Or

  • And/or: A phrase used to indicate that either one or both options are possible.
  • Either/or: A phrase used to denote two options or alternatives.
  • Mutually exclusive: A term used to describe two possibilities that cannot both be true at the same time.
  • Alternative: A term used to describe one of two or more possibilities that can be chosen.