a side thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a side thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an additional or secondary activity, interest, or responsibility that is not the main focus. Example: "While my main job is in marketing, I also have a side thing as a freelance graphic designer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"This isn't a side thing anymore.

The New York Times

"It was a side thing, I guess," Romero said, referring to Bosch.

The New York Times - Sports

As a side thing, Jimmy and I started doing something jazzy, and it became The Communards and we were huge – for about a week".

Independent

The freak show of the wedding was like a side thing: Madeleine Albright would be here tomorrow; Ruth Bader Ginsburg insisted on performing the ceremony; that advance team for Gore was trying to figure out whether the rain would hold off so Al could helicopter in for an appearance.

The New Yorker

The acting is like a side thing.

Huffington Post

I have a new band called People On Vacation, which is a side thing.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

So, we worked together on the road for a couple of years, and I knew that they were working on a side thing--I think they were just trying to make some side-money.

Huffington Post

The "A" side was a lachrymose thing overpowered by a female chorus; the "B" side was livelier, with sharp, twanged guitar breaks.

The New Yorker

And when you add in the platform itself, which is arguably a third "side", things can get even tenser.

TechCrunch

She goes further a few verses later — "You're just my little side thing/ Just a little sweet fling" -- before rolling back to the chorus: "I just want some company".

Los Angeles Times

"But with an inexperienced side things can fall into place suddenly.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project or task that is not your primary focus, using "a side thing" can clearly communicate its secondary importance without diminishing its value or potential.

Common error

Avoid using "a side thing" to describe something crucial to your overall goals, as it can downplay its importance and create misunderstandings about priorities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a side thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. It identifies an activity, interest, or project that is secondary to one's main focus. Ludwig examples show it describing hobbies, jobs, or projects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a side thing" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to an activity, interest, or project that is secondary to one's main focus. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is primarily used in informal contexts, although it can also be found in news and media. While clear and concise, more formal alternatives may be suitable for professional or academic settings. When using "a side thing", ensure it accurately reflects the relative importance of the activity being described to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives include "a secondary pursuit", "a sideline activity", and "an additional responsibility". The most authoritative sources employing this phrase are The New York Times, Huffington Post and The New Yorker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sideline activity

Implies the activity is conducted alongside a primary occupation.

a secondary pursuit

Emphasizes the active nature of the side activity as something one is deliberately pursuing.

an additional undertaking

Highlights the effort and commitment involved in the secondary activity.

a secondary occupation

Highlights the professional or vocational element of the side activity.

a supplementary task

Suggests the side activity complements or adds to the main task.

a supplementary venture

Highlights the character of a business or project.

a peripheral interest

Focuses on the less central or essential nature of the activity.

an extra responsibility

Emphasizes the burden or duty associated with the additional activity.

a non-essential project

Highlights that the project is not mandatory or key for specific goals.

a secondary concern

Emphasizes the lesser importance or priority of the activity.

FAQs

How can I use "a side thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a side thing" to describe an activity, project, or interest that is secondary to your main focus. For example, "While I work as a teacher full-time, I run "a small business" as a side thing".

What can I say instead of "a side thing"?

You can use alternatives like "a side project", "a secondary pursuit", or "an additional activity" depending on the context.

Is "a side thing" formal or informal?

"A side thing" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, it's better to use phrases like "a secondary endeavor" or "an additional responsibility".

What's the difference between "a side thing" and "a hobby"?

While both refer to activities outside of one's main job or focus, "a hobby" typically implies leisure and enjoyment, whereas "a side thing" can also refer to activities undertaken for additional income or professional development, like "freelance work".