A2noun 1K

Side

UK /["/saɪd/"]/ US /["/saɪd/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

either of the two halves of a surface, an object or an area that is divided by an imaginary central line

Listen to definition

In simple words: A part or direction of something, like the left or right.

Examples

• She always carries her bag on her right side.
• He prefers to eat pizza with a side of salad.
• The car was parked on the side of the road.
• During the game, the players pushed the ball to the left side.
• My dog likes to lie on my side when I sleep.
• They have different sides to their personalities.
• You can choose a side in the debate at school.
• On the side, she paints beautiful landscapes.

Usage notes

Use 'side' to refer to a part of something, like a building or an argument. It's neutral and widely applicable, but avoid using it when discussing the central or main part.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'side' as a slice of cake—there are many pieces you can choose from.

Collocations

• far
• opposite
• other
• side of
• at one side
• at the side
• sunny side up
• far
• opposite
• other
• side of
• at one side
• at the side
• sunny side up
• far
• opposite
• other
• side of
• at one side
• at the side
• sunny side up
• far
• opposite
• other
• side of
• at one side
• at the side
• sunny side up
• far
• opposite
• other
• side of
• at one side
• at the side
• sunny side up
• left
• left-hand
• right
• ache
• hurt
• down your side
• in the/​your side
• on your side
• at somebody’s side
• side by side
• a pain in your side
• flip
• reverse
• opposing
• losing
• winning
• choose
• switch
• accuse somebody
• argue something
• want something
• on side
• on both sides
• bright
• plus
• positive
• have
• show
• hide
• side to
• somebody’s side of the story
• see the funny side (of something)
• bright
• plus
• positive
• have
• show
• hide
• side to
• somebody’s side of the story
• see the funny side (of something)
• good
• strong
• full-strength
• captain
• skipper
• lead
• win (something)
• play
• battle
• let the side down
• put your side ahead
• put your side in front
• left
• left-hand
• right
• ache
• hurt
• down your side
• in the/​your side
• on your side
• at somebody’s side
• side by side
• a pain in your side

Synonyms

• part
• section
• edge
• flank
• aspect

Antonyms

• center
• middle

Common mistakes

• 'Side' is sometimes confused with 'sided' when describing shapes.
• 'Side' is incorrectly used to refer to the main part of something.
• Learners might use 'side' as a verb instead of a noun.