Meaning
otherwise, or else
In a sentence
Sbrigati, altrimenti perdiamo il treno.
Hurry up, otherwise we'll miss the train.
Prendi l'ombrello, altrimenti ti bagnerai.
Take the umbrella, otherwise you'll get wet.
Ho chiamato subito, altrimenti era troppo tardi.
I called right away, otherwise it was too late.
Usage notes
- Use altrimenti for consequences or alternatives; otherwise, invece usually contrasts two facts rather than giving a warning or result.
- Common in instructions and warnings: Sbrigati, altrimenti perdiamo il treno. It often introduces what happens if the first condition is not met.
- It can stand alone elliptically: Vieni con noi? Altrimenti resto a casa. English speakers may overuse oppure where altrimenti sounds more natural.