at this side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this side" is not commonly used in standard written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a specific location or position relative to something else, but "on this side" is more appropriate. Example: "Please stand at this side of the room while we set up the equipment."

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The large, complex motifs at this side are formed by deeply carved lines and cupules.

Journal of Archaeological Science

The ticket-seller sits by a window, gazing blankly at this side of the road.

The New Yorker

Thing is, Cole is better at this side of things too.

The Guardian - Sport

At this side event of the 71st United Nations General Assembly, many of its most prominent members came together to publicly pledge their support.

Harvard University

With Defense Secretary Jim Mattis at this side, Mr. Trump signed an executive order last month restricting immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries.

The New York Times

The driving force is maintained by applying vacuum at the downstream side to keep the pressure at this side below the equilibrium vapor pressure (see Fig. 1), The membrane in this process is a physical support for the vapor-liquid interface and does not affect the selectivity associated with the vapor-liquid equilibrium.

Desalination

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

But joint bonds are unthinkable for Mrs Merkel, at least this side of the German election in 2013.

The Economist

Both ideas are anathema in Germany, at least this side of the election and probably for much longer.

The New York Times

That's dangerous talk in Madrid, so the Mill is not ruling out the possibility of Benítez replacing Brendan Rodgers at Anfield this side of January.

The Guardian - Sport

"People care less now than they did nine months ago". Worries that the government will track people by their phones has receded, at least this side of Michele Bachmann.

Forbes

Varenicline is known to have mild affinity for serotonin receptors which may contribute to the notable rate at which this side effect occurs.

ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing locations, consider using "on this side" as it is generally more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English.

Common error

Avoid using "at this side" when "on this side" or "to this side" would provide better clarity and flow. Using the phrase repeatedly can make your writing sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this side" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating a location or position. It is often used to specify where something is in relation to a reference point. Ludwig AI suggests that "on this side" is more appropriate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "at this side" is understandable, it's not always the most idiomatic choice in English. As Ludwig AI notes, alternatives like "on this side" or "to this side" often provide better clarity and flow. The phrase functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating location, and is used across different contexts, including science, news, and academia. While common, it's crucial to be mindful of its potential awkwardness and consider more common alternatives for improved writing. Overall, understanding the context and audience is key when deciding whether to use "at this side" or a more conventional phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on this side

Uses a more common preposition, making the phrase sound more natural.

to this side

Emphasizes movement or direction towards a specific area.

in this area

Focuses on a general location rather than a specific side.

in this part

Highlights a segment or section of something.

near here

Indicates proximity to a specific location.

in this direction

Emphasizes a line of sight or path.

at this location

Focuses on a specific point or place.

from this perspective

Shifts the focus to a viewpoint or opinion.

within this boundary

Specifies a limit or border.

adjacent to this

Highlights a position immediately next to something.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "at this side"?

While grammatically understandable, "at this side" isn't the most common or natural phrasing. Alternatives like "on this side" or "to this side" are generally preferred.

When should I use "at this side"?

You might use "at this side" when emphasizing a specific spot or location relative to something else, but in most cases, alternatives like "on this side" are clearer and more widely accepted.

What can I say instead of "at this side"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives such as "on this side", "to this side", "in this area", or "near here".

Which is correct, "at this side" or "on this side"?

"On this side" is generally considered more correct and idiomatic than "at this side". While "at this side" is understandable, it's less common and can sound awkward.