At a glance
AなりBなり gives examples of possible choices: "A or B, or something like that." It is usually followed by a suggestion, request or command.
Noun A なり Noun B なり + suggestion / request
Verb (dictionary form) なり Verb (dictionary form) なり する
電話なりメールなりで連絡してください。 Please contact me by phone, email or some other way.
How to form it
| Attaches to | Example | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | 先生なり先輩なり | A particle usually comes after the second なり: 先生なり先輩なりに聞く |
| Verb (dictionary form) | 聞くなり調べるなり | Usually followed by する: 聞くなり調べるなりしてください |
Used in both speech and writing. It sounds firm and practical, like giving advice.