Published August 31, 2024 • Updated September 4, 2026 — By French teacher David Issokson with native audio by Marie Assel Cambier
Sinon Meaning
Sinon is a common French connector word meaning “otherwise,” “if not,” or “or else.” It is used to introduce what will happen if the previous idea or condition is not met. For example, Dépêche-toi, sinon tu seras en retard (Hurry up, otherwise you’ll be late).
Sinon Pronunciation
The IPA pronunciation of sinon is /si.nɔ̃/, which sounds approximately like “see-nohn.”
Sinon Example Sentences
Dépêche-toi, sinon tu n’arriveras jamais à l’heure.
Hurry up! Otherwise, you’ll never arrive on time.
Je vais me coucher tôt ce soir, sinon je serai fatigué demain.
I’m going to go to bed early. If not, I’ll be tired tomorrow.
Il faut être patient quand on apprend le français, sinon c’est trop difficile.
You have to be patient when learning French. Otherwise, it’s too hard.
👉 See also: À moins que (unless) »
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🔗 Related words and expressions
- autrement — otherwise
- au cas où — just in case
- sinon quoi — otherwise, or else
- à défaut — failing that, if not
- sauf si — unless, except if
- dans le cas contraire — otherwise, if not
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