German Conversation · Level 77
59 words
German word
andernfalls
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈandɐnˌfals/
Meaning
- adverbotherwise
Example
Bitte melde dich, andernfalls kann ich nicht planen.
Please get in touch; otherwise, I can't plan.
More examples
Reichen Sie die Unterlagen ein, andernfalls kann das Projekt nicht starten.
Please submit the documents; otherwise, the project cannot start.
Core concept
A decision point branches to a different outcome when the first condition is not met.
Common phrases
andernfalls kommt es zu Verzögerungen
otherwise, delays will arise
andernfalls entfällt die Teilnahme
otherwise, participation will be canceled
andernfalls muss die Bestellung storniert werden
otherwise, the order must be canceled
Similar words
sonst: In everyday speech, signals what else will happen if a condition is not fulfilled.
ansonsten: In written language, indicates a different outcome when a condition does not apply.
Definition in German
Wenn nicht; drückt aus, dass im gegenteiligen Fall eine andere Konsequenz eintritt.
Word origin
Andernfalls developed from the phrase "im andern Fall," meaning "in the other case," with "ander" meaning other and "Fall" meaning case.
Usage tips
- Andernfalls is more formal than sonst and is common in written warnings, instructions, and careful speech.
Opposites
- dannthenadverb
Related words
- andersdifferentlyadverb
- andererseitson the other handadverb
- andersartigdifferent in kindadjective