~なり~なり
JLPT Level: N1
Meanings
Or, either or
This or that; one thing or another
Usage
X なり Y なり
Verb-dictionary form + なり + Verb-dictionary form + なり
Explanation
~なり~なり is used to indicate that there are multiple possible actions or options one can take in a given situation. It emphasizes that the speaker is not committing to a single choice, but listing or implying several alternatives. It can add a somewhat neutral, matter-of-fact tone and is common in written or formal narration, but can also appear in everyday speech to suggest flexibility. Typical contexts include deciding what to do next, or describing one of several acceptable behaviors or outcomes. Be aware that the expression often follows a noun, verb, or adjective in its appropriate form, pairing two options with なり to convey "this or that". Examples imply that either course of action is acceptable or possible.
彼は遅刻するなり、電話するなり、対応は自由だ。
かれはちこくするなり、でんわするなり、たいおうはじゆうだ。
He can be late, or he can call—either way, the response is up to him.
会議には参加するなり、欠席するなり、好きにしていい。
かいぎにはさんかするなり、けっせきするなり、すきにしていい。
You may attend the meeting or skip it—do as you like.