What it means
もしくは presents two or more alternatives, meaning “or” and sometimes “otherwise.” It is most common in formal, written, administrative, legal, and explanatory language. It can connect nouns, noun phrases, or complete clauses. When connecting clauses, it often appears after a comma or alongside か to make the alternatives clear.
Usage note
もしくは is more formal than または and is not usually the most natural choice in casual conversation. In clause coordination, place punctuation before もしくは or use か when needed so that the two alternatives are easy to identify.
How to use it
申請先は本社もしくは支社です。
The application destination is either the head office or a branch office.
申請書を郵送する、もしくは窓口で提出する必要があります。
It is necessary to mail the application form or submit it at the counter.
申請先は本社もしくは支社だ。
The application destination is either the head office or a branch office.
申請書を郵送する、もしくは窓口で提出する必要がある。
It is necessary to mail the application form or submit it at the counter.
Example sentences
申請者は、申請書を窓口に提出する、もしくは専用サイトから送信する必要がある。
Applicants must either submit the application form at the service counter or send it through the designated website.
試験当日は、学生証もしくは顔写真付きの公的身分証明書を提示してください。
On the day of the examination, please present your student ID or an official form of identification with a photograph.
参加費は銀行振込