a side event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a side event" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an event that takes place alongside a main event, often as a supplementary or related activity. Example: "During the conference, there will be a side event focused on sustainable practices in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It was a side event," he said.

Independent

Against this background, the leaders' summit itself proved to be little more than a side event.

The Guardian

A side event at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics had robots skiing a slalom course.

The Times

It really felt like a side event rather than a triumphant spectacle that returned after a century of hibernation.

The Guardian - Sport

The Panorama Solutions for a Healthy Planet, of which ZIDOFA is one, were presented a side event at COP23 in Bonn on November 16, 2017.

Cornell University

Thus it is necessary for the Olympic Games as a whole to commemorate this event in the open rather than only in a side event".

The New York Times - Sports

On Monday, Melesse took part in a side event at Rio+20 to advocate more commitment to promoting family planning and sexual health as a right.

The Guardian

The film was shown at a side event at the world humanitarian summit and has been viewed thousands of times online and through social media networks.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Owen Williams is ready to be discharged from hospital, 10 months after suffering a spinal injury playing for Cardiff Blues in a 10-a-side event.

BBC

She will be presenting her report on homelessness to the UN human rights council on 3 March and hosting a side-event in Geneva on 4 March.

The Guardian

The London mayor, who made a showy appearance at the Copenhagen climate change conference in 2009, was conspicuously absent from a side-event C40 meeting of mayors from 58 megacities around the world.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a conference or summit, ensure that any "a side event" clearly complements the main agenda and offers unique value to attendees. Promote it effectively to avoid it being overlooked.

Common error

Don't assume attendees understand the purpose of "a side event". Clearly state its objectives and how it enhances the overall experience, preventing confusion and encouraging participation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a side event" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object within a sentence. It identifies an event that is secondary or supplementary to a larger, more central event, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a side event" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an activity that occurs alongside a main event. According to Ludwig AI, it functions primarily to inform and is used across various contexts, including news, science, and business. The phrase is generally neutral to professional in tone. Related phrases include "ancillary activity" and "parallel session". When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding its objectives and relevance to the primary event to maximize attendee engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an accompanying event

Stresses that the event is happening in conjunction with a main event.

a satellite event

Suggests the event is connected to a larger, central event but held separately.

an ancillary activity

Focuses on the supportive or auxiliary nature of the event.

a parallel session

Emphasizes the simultaneous occurrence of the event alongside others.

a supplementary program

Highlights the additional and supportive nature of the event.

a related activity

Indicates a connection or relevance to a primary event.

an adjunct program

Implies that the event is added to or complements a main program.

a secondary gathering

Highlights the subordinate or less central role of the event.

an extra session

Emphasizes the additional and non-essential nature of the event.

an overflow meeting

Implies the event is intended for attendees who cannot be accommodated in the main event.

FAQs

How is "a side event" typically structured?

The structure of "a side event" varies, but it usually includes presentations, panel discussions, or workshops related to the main event's theme. Its format should be engaging and provide additional value to attendees.

What are some synonyms for "a side event"?

Alternatives include "ancillary activity", "parallel session", or "accompanying event". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How do I promote "a side event" effectively?

Promote it through email newsletters, social media, and conference programs. Highlight its unique value and relevance to the main event to attract attendees.

What makes "a side event" successful?

A successful "a side event" has clear objectives, relevant content, engaging speakers, and effective promotion. It should also provide opportunities for networking and interaction among attendees.