as a side rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a side rule" is not commonly used in written English and may be considered awkward or unclear.
It could be used when referring to a secondary guideline or principle that is not the main focus but still relevant to the discussion. Example: "While the main rule is to submit your work on time, as a side rule, please ensure that all documents are properly formatted."

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

As a side rule, the following relation for the gas hold-up has been obtained:.

Chemical Engineering Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As a side note, we have very strict rules regarding birthday cakes.

The New Yorker

Old-school is the rule, and seeing cottage cheese on the menu as a side dish is somehow deeply comforting.

The Washington Post

Yield: Serves four as a side dish.

The New York Times

"That's our ethos as a side.

BBC

Serve as a side dish.

WikiHow

Serve it with something as a side.

WikiHow

Serves 4 (as a side dish).

WikiHow

Best served as a side dish.

WikiHow

Using snow peas as a side dish.

WikiHow

Eat black rice as a side dish.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a side rule", ensure it's clear that the rule is secondary to a more important guideline. Avoid using it if the 'side rule' is critical to the outcome.

Common error

Avoid presenting a minor detail or suggestion as "as a side rule" if it risks overshadowing the primary instruction. Ensure that the 'side rule' does not distract from the main objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a side rule" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause to introduce a secondary or supplementary guideline. While Ludwig AI highlights its infrequent use, it serves to provide additional context or instruction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a side rule" introduces a secondary guideline or principle. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI notes it isn't commonly used and might sound awkward. Alternatives like "as a secondary rule" or "as an additional guideline" offer better clarity and are preferred in formal contexts. The phrase's usage spans various domains, though it isn't dominant in any specific area. When using it, ensure the 'side rule' doesn't overshadow the primary point; otherwise, consider more common and direct alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a secondary rule

Replaces "side" with "secondary", emphasizing the subordinate nature of the rule.

as an additional guideline

Substitutes "rule" with "guideline", softening the directive tone.

as a supplementary principle

Uses "supplementary principle" to highlight the rule's supporting role.

as a corollary

Employs "corollary" to denote a direct consequence or implication.

incidentally

Indicates that the information is being added as an aside.

by the way

Introduces the information as a tangential remark.

in passing

Suggests that the information is mentioned briefly and casually.

on a related note

Connects the information to the main topic but indicates a slight deviation.

parenthetically

Indicates the information is added as an aside and is not essential to the main point.

tangentially speaking

Highlights that the information is related but not directly relevant.

FAQs

What does "as a side rule" mean?

The phrase "as a side rule" refers to a secondary or additional guideline that is less important than the main rule but still relevant. It indicates a supplementary instruction or principle.

How can I use "as a side rule" in a sentence?

You can use "as a side rule" to introduce an extra guideline or suggestion. For example: "The main requirement is to finish the project on time; "as a side rule", ensure all documentation is properly updated."

What are some alternatives to "as a side rule"?

Alternatives to "as a side rule" include "as a secondary rule", "as an additional guideline", or "as a supplementary principle". These phrases offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

Is "as a side rule" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "as a side rule" is less common and can sound awkward. It's generally better to opt for clearer alternatives like "as a secondary rule" or "as an additional guideline" for better clarity.