| Element | FORM/USE: 'OR NOT' |
|---|---|
| SuperCat | QUESTIONS |
| SubCat | alternatives |
| Lexical Range | N/A |
| Level | B1 |
| Cando | Can form alternative questions using 'or not' to substitute for a clause, sometimes to express annoyance or impatience. |
| Corrected Learner Example | For a few seconds he was quiet. I couldn't wait, I asked nervously about his exam, did he pass or not? (Poland; B1 THRESHOLD; 2005; Polish; Pass) Do you want to do that or not? (Japan; B1 THRESHOLD; 2007; Japanese; Pass) Do you agree with me or not? (Italy; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; Italian; Pass) Will you be there till that time or not? (India; B1 THRESHOLD; 2007; Hindi; Pass) |
| Uncorrected Learner Example | First a few seconds he was quiet, I couldn't wait, I asked nervously what about his exam, did he pass or not? (Poland; B1 THRESHOLD; 2005; Polish; Pass) Do you want to do that or not? (Japan; B1 THRESHOLD; 2007; Japanese; Pass) Do you agree with me or not? (Italy; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; Italian; Pass) Will you be there till that time or not? (India; B1 THRESHOLD; 2007; Hindi; Pass) |
| Comments | In spoken language the 'or not' may have stronger pragmatic force. |
