as a sideline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a sideline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an activity or job that is secondary to one's main occupation or focus. Example: "She works as a graphic designer during the day, but she also writes novels as a sideline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Others practiced photography as a sideline.

The New York Times - Arts

"But the cartoons were seen merely as a sideline.

The New Yorker

He ran a nursery business as a sideline, he wrote, "to improve my country".

The New York Times - Arts

In 1892 he began selling baking powder as a sideline, offering chewing gum as a premium.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But now what began as a sideline has turned into multimillion-dollar business.

The New York Times

But licensing, which began as a sideline, has become the main event.

Independent

(As a sideline he managed to develop a fine collection of Japanese art).

The Economist

She seems to view comedy as a sideline, the talent that comes easiest to her.

The New York Times - Magazine

At Mumbai Central station Shankar Naidu transports corpses as a sideline.

The Guardian

Soon, Ms. Hill founded a Web site design company as a sideline.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Bizet Rolls Picture Carmen as a tattooed nightclub diva who runs guns as a sideline.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a sideline", ensure it clearly indicates a secondary activity that supplements the primary focus. This helps avoid confusion about the main area of expertise or occupation.

Common error

Avoid using "as a sideline" when the activity is actually a significant part of someone's professional life or contributes substantially to their income. Reserve it for activities that are truly secondary in importance and time commitment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a sideline" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating the manner or purpose of an action. It specifies that something is done secondarily, complementing a main activity. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

11%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a sideline" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an activity that is secondary to one's main occupation or interest. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides ample examples from diverse sources. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing contexts, though more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or business settings. The phrase is frequently found in news media, as well as encyclopedia articles, indicating its broad applicability. Understanding its usage helps ensure clarity and precision in conveying the nature of supplementary activities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the side

This phrase is a more concise and informal way to indicate an activity done in addition to a main job or interest.

as a secondary activity

This is a more formal and direct way of saying something is done in addition to a primary one.

in one's spare time

This phrase emphasizes that the activity is done during free time, rather than as a professional endeavor.

as a side project

This term is often used in business or creative contexts to describe a supplementary undertaking.

as a supplementary pursuit

Highlights that something is additional or complementary to the main activity, often suggesting a degree of seriousness or dedication.

as a secondary occupation

Directly indicates that something serves as a second job or profession.

as a part-time venture

Emphasizes that the activity is not full-time and likely pursued for additional income or interest.

as an extra endeavor

Indicates an additional effort or undertaking beyond what is normally expected or required.

as a supplemental income source

Explicitly states that the activity serves to provide additional earnings.

as a hobby

Suggests that the activity is pursued for personal enjoyment rather than financial gain or professional advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "as a sideline" in a sentence?

You can use "as a sideline" to describe an activity someone does in addition to their main job or hobby. For example, "She works as a teacher, but she also sells handmade jewelry "on the side"."

What are some alternatives to "as a sideline"?

Some alternatives include ""on the side"", "as a side project", or "in one's spare time". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as a sideline" in formal writing?

While "as a sideline" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "as a secondary activity" or "as a supplementary pursuit" might be more suitable for academic or business contexts.

What's the difference between "as a sideline" and "as a hobby"?

"As a sideline" implies an activity that may generate some income or professional development, whereas "as a hobby" suggests an activity done purely for enjoyment without a primary focus on profit or career advancement.