be side by side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be side by side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more people or things being next to each other or in close proximity, often in a supportive or cooperative context. Example: "During the presentation, the two speakers stood side by side, sharing their insights with the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Her shoes will be side by side, tongues out so her feet can slide easily inside.

The New York Times - Sports

But throughout all his work, the wonderful can be side by side with the absurd.

The Guardian - Books

Either way, they'll be side by side, with no sign of jealousy in between.

The New York Times - Sports

Now, they will be side by side in the field and maybe in the lineup.

The New York Times - Sports

What You'll Pay Spuyten Duyvil may be side by side with Manhattan, but its prices seem more Bronxlike.

The New York Times

The condominiums and hotel will have separate entrances and lobbies, but they will be side by side for easy access.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"It will be side-by-side individual homes, not one immense home.

The New York Times

By Andrea Thompson August 12 , 2008Graffiti's uncomfortably tiny dining room is made even more uncomfortable by the awkwardly communal seating; it's one thing to be seated at one long table with fifteen strangers, another to be side-by-side at a table for five, especially when the plates are meant to be shared.

The New Yorker

Graffiti's uncomfortably tiny dining room is made even more uncomfortable by the awkwardly communal seating; it's one thing to be seated at one long table with fifteen strangers, another to be side-by-side at a table for five, especially when the plates are meant to be shared.

The New Yorker

"People in cars, in mass transit, or on sidewalks get to be side-by-side and talk.

BBC

"At that the corner you cannot have three cars side-by-side, and I backed off a bit to not be side-by-side with my team-mate".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be side by side" to vividly depict physical closeness, cooperation, or shared experiences between entities. For example: "The two companies decided to be side by side at the trade show, showcasing their complementary products."

Common error

Avoid using "be side by side" when you intend to convey hierarchical relationships or sequential order. This phrase best describes simultaneous presence or cooperative action, not necessarily authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be side by side" functions primarily as a descriptive element, indicating a state of physical adjacency or a collaborative relationship. Ludwig provides numerous examples where the phrase illustrates spatial arrangement or mutual support.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be side by side" is a versatile expression used to denote physical proximity, cooperation, or shared situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various contexts, including news, wiki articles, and scientific publications. While its register remains neutral, it's crucial to ensure it accurately reflects simultaneous presence or cooperative action, avoiding misuse in hierarchical or sequential contexts. Related phrases offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, but "be side by side" distinctly conveys a sense of collaboration or shared experience alongside physical nearness. The guidance underscores its effectiveness in vividly portraying these relationships in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be next to each other

Simple and direct expression of physical closeness.

be alongside

Highlights being in a parallel position or working together.

be close together

Emphasizes closeness in distance or relationship.

be adjacent

Focuses on physical closeness or adjacency.

be together

Emphasizes unity or companionship, rather than strict physical placement.

stand shoulder to shoulder

Implies solidarity and mutual support.

be in proximity

Highlights the nearness, but without implying unity or collaboration.

be in alignment

Stresses agreement or coordination of goals.

be cheek by jowl

Expresses very close proximity, possibly uncomfortably so.

be abreast of each other

Focuses on being aligned in progress or knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "be side by side" in a sentence?

The phrase "be side by side" indicates physical proximity or collaboration. For example, "The houses "stand next to each other"", or "The teammates trained "be alongside" to improve their coordination".

What's the difference between "be side by side" and "be adjacent"?

"Be side by side" often implies a sense of cooperation or shared experience in addition to physical nearness, whereas "be adjacent" simply denotes physical proximity.

What can I say instead of "be side by side"?

You can use alternatives like ""be alongside"", "be next to each other", or "be together", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "be side by side" in a formal context?

Yes, "be side by side" is appropriate in formal contexts to describe physical proximity or collaboration. For instance, "The organizations "stand shoulder to shoulder" in support of the initiative".