around the side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "around the side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a location or direction that is not directly in front but rather to the side of something. Example: "The entrance to the building is around the side, not in the front."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But around the side, you may feel like weeping.

The New York Times

"It has chrome around the side windows," ventures another.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

You feel it around the side of your mask.

The New York Times - Magazine

Apply sauce liberally around the side of the glass.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Pin around the side and bottom of the bag.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He hurried stiffly around the side of the barn, holding on to his hat.

The New Yorker

I heard a door open and then she came from around the side of the building.

The New Yorker

Slide under the wreck, crash through it, or skirt around the side?

The New Yorker

He's been a very calming influence around the side," the England vice-captain told the BBC.

Independent

You can get to it around the side of the house.

The Guardian - Books

Outside, the square-on facade becomes voluptuous volumes around the side.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "around the side", ensure the context clearly establishes what the side is referring to. Ambiguity can arise if the reference point is unclear.

Common error

Avoid using "around the side" without a clear indication of what the 'side' belongs to. For example, instead of saying "I saw him around the side", specify "I saw him around the side of the building" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "around the side" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying verbs or nouns by indicating location or direction. Ludwig examples show it specifying where something is located in relation to another object, such as "around the side of the house" or describing movement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "around the side" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate a location or direction relative to a specific object. As Ludwig AI points out, it is versatile enough for various contexts, from describing the layout of a building to explaining movement or positioning. While its register is typically neutral, prioritizing clarity and specifying what the 'side' refers to will always enhance your writing. Alternatives such as "to the side of" or "beside" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the side of

Indicates a position directly to the side, removing the circularity implied by "around".

beside

A simpler way to indicate something is next to something else.

by the side of

A more emphatic way to indicate something is next to something else.

adjacent to

A more formal way of saying something is next to or bordering something else.

on the flank of

Suggests a position on the side, often used in military or strategic contexts, adding a sense of protection or vulnerability.

flanking

Emphasizes the positioning on the side, often suggesting protection or support.

at the edge of

Highlights being at the outer limit or border of something.

to the edge of

Focuses on proximity to the border or margin of something.

along the perimeter of

Emphasizes movement or placement along the outer boundary.

circumventing

Describes going around something, often to avoid an obstacle, focusing on the action of moving.

FAQs

How can I use "around the side" in a sentence?

You can use "around the side" to describe a location or direction relative to a specific object. For example, "The entrance is "around the side" of the building, not in the front."

What can I say instead of "around the side"?

Alternatives include "to the side of", "beside", or "adjacent to" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "at the side" instead of "around the side"?

Both phrases are generally correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "At the side" indicates a position directly next to something, while ""around the side"" suggests a position that involves moving or being located partially or completely on the side, possibly curving around it.

How does the formality of "around the side" compare to other similar phrases?

The phrase ""around the side"" is generally considered neutral in formality. More formal alternatives might include "adjacent to" or "on the flank of", while a simpler, less formal option is "beside".