or even

USAGE SUMMARY

'or even' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to add emphasis or to introduce an additional elaboration on an idea or statement. For example, you could say, "I'm so exhausted, I could sleep for days, or even weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or even a movement.

The New York Times

"Or even understand English".

The New Yorker

Or even just sprout.

The New York Times

Or even worse.

The New Yorker

Or even making sense?

The New York Times

Or even understand.

Independent

Or even mad.

The New Yorker

Or even music students?

The New York Times - Sports

Or even a little!

The New York Times

Or even used them.

The New York Times

Or even texting.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "or even", ensure the items being compared are logically related to enhance clarity and avoid confusing the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "or even" when the items being compared have no logical connection. This can create a disjointed and confusing sentence. Instead, use "or even" to highlight a progression or escalation of ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "or even" functions as a conjunctional phrase used to introduce an element that is additional and often more surprising or extreme than the preceding one. Ludwig AI confirms this usage as grammatically correct and versatile.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "or even" functions as a conjunctional phrase to introduce a surprising or extreme element to a prior statement. It is grammatically correct and versatile as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. When writing, it is vital to make sure that items compared through "or even" are related to avoid confusion. Consider using synonyms like "in fact" or "indeed" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in fact

Emphasizes the truth or reality of a statement, often introducing something surprising or additional.

indeed

Similar to "in fact", but can also express agreement or acknowledgement.

actually

Often introduces a surprising or unexpected element.

worse still

Introduces something more negative than what was previously mentioned.

if anything

Suggests that the opposite of what was stated is true, adding a twist.

to top it off

Introduces a final, often surprising or negative, element.

in some cases

Highlights the possibility of an event to occur. Not emphatic or surprising as 'or even'.

what's more

Adds extra information.

at that

Expresses further disapproval.

furthermore

Adds another piece of information, a nuance.

FAQs

How can I use "or even" in a sentence?

Use "or even" to introduce a more surprising or extreme element following a previous statement, as in, "I could eat a whole pizza, "or even" two!"

What are some alternatives to "or even"?

Consider using alternatives like "in fact", "indeed", or "actually" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "or even" formal or informal?

"Or even" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's most effective when emphasizing a point.

What's the difference between "or even" and "or just"?

"Or even" implies something more surprising or extreme, while "or just" suggests something simpler or more basic. For example, "I might go to Europe, "or even" Asia" suggests Asia is a bigger trip, while "I might have tea, "or just" water" implies water is simpler.