been on the side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "been on the side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate support or alignment with a particular person, group, or cause, often in a context of advocacy or loyalty. Example: "Throughout the years, I have always been on the side of those fighting for justice and equality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In almost every state where the ID laws have been at issue, Republican governors and legislatures have been on the side of passing stricter ones, while Democrats have sought to block them.

The New York Times

We've been on the side of not measuring up and realize no one is perfect.

Huffington Post

I've been on the side of rationalism.

The Guardian

He would most likely have been on the side of the rioters in London in 2011.

Independent

Nobody has been on the side of shareholders," said Fadel Gheit, an analyst for Oppenheimer & Company.

The New York Times

"Personally, I have always been on the side of those who suffer," Mr. Kouchner said.

The New York Times

"The army in Pakistan has traditionally been on the side of the people.

The Guardian

In office, he has generally been on the side of caution.

The New Yorker

My own experience in war has largely been on the side of insurgents.

The New York Times

Mr. Lieberman has always been on the side of the insurance business.

The New York Times

If it failed, the Republicans could portray themselves as having been on the side of fiscal prudence.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "been on the side" when you want to convey a sense of consistent support or alignment with a particular viewpoint or cause. For example: "Throughout her career, she has always "been on the side" of the underprivileged."

Common error

While "been on the side" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal writing where more precise or nuanced language might be appropriate. Consider using stronger verbs like "supported" or "advocated" to convey your meaning more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "been on the side" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating support, alignment, or advocacy. It typically modifies a verb, providing information about the direction of someone's loyalty or efforts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "been on the side" is a common and grammatically correct way to express support or alignment with a particular cause or person. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is widely used in News & Media and acceptable for use in general contexts. Alternatives like "sided with" or "supported" may be more appropriate in formal settings. The frequency of the phrase is high, especially in journalistic contexts, indicating its common usage in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sided with

Replaces the prepositional phrase with a verb, making the sentence more direct.

supported

A more general term indicating endorsement or assistance.

aligned oneself with

Emphasizes a deliberate act of choosing to be associated with a particular group or cause.

stood by

Indicates loyalty and unwavering support, especially during difficult times.

took the part of

Implies advocacy or defending someone or something.

was in agreement with

Focuses on shared opinions or beliefs.

espoused the cause of

Highlights active promotion and advocacy for a specific cause.

championed

Suggests vigorous defense and promotion of a person, idea, or cause.

upheld the interests of

Focuses on protecting and promoting the welfare of a specific group or entity.

advocated for

Implies active support and public promotion of a particular cause or policy.

FAQs

What does "been on the side" mean?

The phrase "been on the side" means to support or align with a particular person, group, or cause. It implies a sense of loyalty or advocacy.

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

You can use "been on the side" to describe someone's consistent support for a particular cause. For example: "He has always "been on the side" of environmental protection."

What can I say instead of "been on the side"?

You can use alternatives like "sided with", "supported", or "aligned oneself with" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "supported" rather than "been on the side"?

Yes, "supported" is generally more formal than "been on the side". The latter can sometimes sound less formal and more conversational.