A2noun1K

Side

UK /["/saɪd/"]/US /["/saɪd/"]/

Definition

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

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.