aut
[ˈau̯t]
The English phrase "or" is translated into Latin as aut.
aut is a conjunction used to introduce an alternative when only one of two options can be chosen. Other words like sive or seu can also serve as equivalents to "or" or convey the meaning of "whether".
Which one should you use?
In Latin, the choice of conjunction depends on whether the alternatives are mutually exclusive. The form aut is used in a correlative structure aut … aut … to express an exclusive choice (either one or the other, but not both). In contrast, vel is used for an inclusive choice, meaning the alternatives are not mutually exclusive and both could potentially be true or possible.
Did you know?
- In legal Latin, the choice between aut and vel could change the entire meaning of a contract or a law by making a requirement inclusive or exclusive.
- The word sive was often used to provide an alternative name for the same thing, acting more like 'otherwise called' than a choice between two different things.
Examples in context
- Aut Caesar aut nihil.All or nothing.This sentence shows the use of aut to express an all-or-nothing sentiment.
- Aut disce aut discēde.Either learn or leave.This sentence uses aut to present an exclusive choice between learning and leaving.
- Accipe nummōs nōnāgintā aut nūllōs!Accept 90 coins or nothing!This sentence demonstrates the use of aut when presenting an alternative between a specific amount and nothing.
- Sive in caelo sum sive in terra, mox te revidebo.Whether I am in heaven or on earth, I will see you soon.
- Sive vis, sive nolis, hoc facere debes.Whether you want to or not, you must do this.
- 91 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gaius and Aurelia are deciding what to eat for dinner.
- GaiusQuid edemus, Aurelia?What shall we eat, Aurelia?
- AureliaPanem edam, Gai.I will eat bread, Gaius.
- GaiusVisne panem aut caseum?Do you want bread or cheese?
- AureliaCaseum volo, mi amice.I want cheese, my friend.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry aut, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aut, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
