or else
Implied consequences follow
Or else signals a consequence if some condition isn't met.
After a command, it implies a threat: Clean your room or else.
After a condition, it introduces an alternative outcome: We need to leave now, or else we'll miss the flight.
Standing alone, or else can be a vague but ominous warning: You'd better cooperate—or else.
Forceful request or requirement
- conditionState or stipulation
- final offerLast negotiable position
- last chanceUltimate remaining opportunity
- deadlineTime limit for completion
nonnegotiable · bottom line · final warning · point of no return · moment of truth · line in the sand · showdown · terms
Deliberate fear-inducing pressure
- menaceSource of potential harm
- coercionPressured compliance through threats
- warningAlert about danger
- ultimatumNon-negotiable final terms
blackmail · bullying · bluff · strong-arm · scare tactics · leverage · pressure tactics · veiled threat
Results following an event
- repercussionIndirect result of action
- outcomeFinal result of events
- resultWhat follows a cause
- ramificationSecondary consequence of action
fallout · penalty · what happens next · if not · alternatively · failing that · in that case · on pain of
Careful attention to risk
- heads-upInformal advance warning
- fair warningReasonable advance notice
- red flagIndicator of danger
- wake-up callJolt into awareness
word to the wise · forewarning · alert · notice · omen · signal · hint · premonition
demand
Forceful request or requirement
- conditionState or stipulation
- final offerLast negotiable position
- last chanceUltimate remaining opportunity
deadline · nonnegotiable · bottom line · final warning · point of no return · moment of truth · line in the sand · showdown · terms · mandate
intimidation
Deliberate fear-inducing pressure
ultimatum · blackmail · bullying · bluff · strong-arm · scare tactics · leverage · pressure tactics · veiled threat · force
aftermath
Results following an event
- repercussionIndirect result of action
- outcomeFinal result of events
- resultWhat follows a cause
ramification · fallout · penalty · what happens next · if not · alternatively · failing that · in that case · on pain of · chain reaction
caution
Careful attention to risk
- heads-upInformal advance warning
- fair warningReasonable advance notice
- red flagIndicator of danger
wake-up call · word to the wise · forewarning · alert · notice · omen · signal · hint · premonition · caveat
- escalationescalation, escalate, ratchet up, worsen, intensify
- Strong Adviceshould, must, ought to, need to, have to
- conditionalsif, then, if clause, if clauses, if-then
or elseplease
Polite appeal word
take your time · I promise · no pressure · perhaps · I guarantee
or elseor not
Phrase suggesting alternative possibility
either way · regardless · no matter what · whatever happens · unconditionally