be on the same side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be on the same side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express agreement or alignment with someone else's opinion, perspective, or situation. Example: "In this debate, it's important for us to be on the same side to present a united front."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The two front creases should be on the same side, one on top of the other.

WikiHow

We should be on the same side.

The Guardian

So, the chlorides both need to be on the same side so a combined DNA.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It only makes sense for them to be on the same side.

The New York Times

'It was embarrassing to be on the same side as him.

The Guardian - Books

"On most issues, Europe and the U.S. will be on the same side," Mr. Faber said.

The New York Times

We face a conflict between civilisation and culture, which used to be on the same side.

The Guardian - Opinion

And in the next round, he and Mr. Lugar expect to be on the same side.

The New York Times

In it, Trump and Putin, for all their differences, would be on the same side.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He ought to be on the same side, instead of opposing everything".

The New York Times

Gove, Young and the architectural profession should be on the same side.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be on the same side" to emphasize a shared goal or common interest between individuals or groups, especially when they might otherwise be in conflict or disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "be on the same side" when a simpler term like "agree" or "support" would suffice. This phrase implies a deeper sense of alliance or shared purpose, not just a fleeting agreement on a single issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be on the same side" functions as a prepositional phrase. It typically acts as a predicate complement, expressing a state of agreement, alignment, or shared purpose between two or more entities. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase indicates that individuals or groups share common goals or perspectives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be on the same side" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates agreement, alignment, or shared purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news and media, wiki articles, and formal business communications. While generally neutral in register, it's best employed when emphasizing a deeper sense of alliance and commonality. Remember to avoid overuse where simpler terms would suffice and be mindful of the underlying scope and intent of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

see eye to eye

Suggests a complete agreement and shared understanding.

be in agreement

Focuses on having the same opinion or belief.

be in alignment

Highlights the state of being in agreement or cooperation.

be of one mind

Indicates a unified perspective or intention.

be in accord

Emphasizes a formal or official agreement.

be united

Stresses the idea of being joined together for a common purpose.

be on the same wavelength

Implies a shared understanding and intuitive connection.

share a common goal

Highlights the mutual objective that parties are striving to achieve.

work together

Focuses on collaborative action towards a common goal.

pull together

Emphasizes the need to cooperate and contribute jointly to achieve something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "be on the same side" as someone?

To "be on the same side" as someone means to share similar goals, values, or opinions, and to work together towards a common objective. It implies a sense of alliance or agreement, even if there are other differences.

How can I use "be on the same side" in a sentence?

You might say, "Despite our political differences, we can "be on the same side" when it comes to protecting the environment", indicating that you agree on that particular issue.

What's the difference between "be on the same page" and ""be on the same side""?

"Be on the same page" means to have the same understanding or information about something, while ""be on the same side"" suggests a deeper alliance or shared purpose beyond just understanding.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be on the same side"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize a shared goal or alignment, especially in situations where there might be potential conflict or disagreement. It's often used to encourage cooperation or highlight common ground.