a side of chips

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a side of chips" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of ordering food, particularly in restaurants or cafes, to refer to a portion of chips (fries) served alongside a main dish. Example: "I would like to order a burger with a side of chips, please."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Let's face it, you're not going to have seaweed with a side of chips.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She demands that her male PR order a side of chips.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Even smaller orders, like bowls or tacos, easily reach the threshold with a side of chips, which deliver 570 calories.

The New York Times

Order the quesadilla with a side of chips and guacamole ($3.22) and a Tecate ($2.30) and you're sated for less than $12.

The New York Times - Food

But once you've begun to see lunch as a sandwich with a side of chips, and snacks as fruit accompanied by a packaged cookie, it's hard to go back.

The New York Times

Bet Xerox busted out a bottle of Cristal with a side of chips and salsa.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

All dishes are served with a side of tortilla chips.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"If you're going to have a 90-calorie dessert, why not add a side of chocolate chips and indulge yourself?" Red Mango, 357 South Oyster Bay Road, Plainview; [phone].

The New York Times

To this he added his characteristic wink-and-nod touch of a side of "potato chips" made from Martin's potato bread slices that are rolled flat, buttered and dried in a low oven.

The New York Times - Food

Or, if you're feeling more carnivorous, grab a grilled chicken breast fresh from the lab that cultured its cells, while crunching on a side of mushroom chips.

TechCrunch

Enjoy this tasty soup on its own or with a side of tortilla chips.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When ordering food, be specific about the type of "chips" you want (e.g. potato chips, french fries, tortilla chips) to avoid confusion.

Common error

Be mindful that the term "chips" refers to different foods in different countries. In the US, "chips" usually means potato chips, while in the UK, it means french fries. Specify the type of chips to avoid miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a side of chips" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a complement or adjunct in a sentence. It identifies a specific dish, often accompanying a main course. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

16%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a side of chips" is a common noun phrase used to refer to a portion of chips served as an accompaniment to a main dish. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and acceptable in written and spoken English. While its frequency is uncommon, the phrase is widely understood and used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, remember potential regional differences in the meaning of "chips". While "a portion of chips" or "an order of chips" are equally acceptable, "a side of fries" is an alternative that may be more convenient in the USA.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a portion of chips

Replaces "side" with "portion", emphasizing the quantity served.

an order of chips

Uses "order" to highlight the act of requesting the chips.

chips as a side dish

Rephrases to clarify that the chips are an accompaniment.

chips on the side

A shorter, more casual way of saying the same thing.

french fries as a side

Specifies "french fries" instead of the more general "chips" (particularly relevant in the US).

a helping of chips

Emphasizes the amount of chips being served.

accompanying chips

Highlights the chips as an accompaniment to the main meal.

chips served as a side

Similar to "chips as a side dish", emphasizing the service aspect.

extra chips

Suggests an additional serving of chips, rather than a standard accompaniment.

side of fries

Common variation, specifically using 'fries' instead of 'chips'.

FAQs

How can I use "a side of chips" in a sentence?

You can use "a side of chips" when ordering food at a restaurant, for example: "I'll have the burger with "a side of chips", please."

What's a more formal way to say "a side of chips"?

While "a side of chips" is perfectly acceptable, you could use "an order of fries" or "a portion of chips" in a more formal setting.

Is "chips" the same as "fries"?

The term "chips" can refer to different things depending on the region. In the UK, "chips" are what Americans call "fries". If you want to be specific, say "side of fries" or "potato chips".

What typically comes with "a side of chips"?

Depending on the restaurant, "a side of chips" may come with condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, or vinegar. Some places might also offer dipping sauces like aioli or guacamole.