besides a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "besides a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce an additional point or consideration in a discussion, often implying that there is more to be said beyond what has already been mentioned. Example: "Besides a few minor errors, the report was well-researched and informative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Something besides a "D.N.F".

The New York Times - Sports

About something besides a man".

The New York Times

There was besides a vigorous peace movement.

The New York Times - Books

It's someplace to come besides a bar".

The New York Times

He is a broker besides a polo player.

The New Yorker

What could Carmela and my mother share besides a battleground?

The New Yorker

Because who besides a child can ride a pony?

The New Yorker

Inspectors found little besides a series of empty tunnels.

The New Yorker

And, besides, a Rubicon had been crossed.

BBC

What else (besides a duck) floats?

TechCrunch

There's nothing fancy about it besides a digital tuner.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "besides a" to smoothly introduce additional information or exceptions without disrupting the flow of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "besides a" in very simple sentences where a more direct conjunction like "and" or "also" would suffice. This can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "besides a" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces an additional element or exception to the subject being discussed. Examples in Ludwig show its use in various contexts, adding further information or qualifications.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "besides a" functions as a prepositional phrase to introduce additional information or exceptions. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and wiki articles. While versatile, avoid overuse in simple sentences for clarity. Alternatives like "in addition to a" or "apart from a" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Using "besides a" effectively enhances the depth and completeness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in addition to a

This alternative emphasizes the additive aspect, highlighting that something is included along with what was already mentioned.

apart from a

This alternative focuses on the exception, indicating something is excluded or different from what was previously mentioned.

aside from a

Similar to "apart from a", this phrase also emphasizes an exception or something distinct from the rest.

other than a

This alternative clearly indicates something different or not included in the previous statement.

outside of a

This option suggests something existing or happening outside the scope of the initial topic.

beyond a

This phrase denotes something that goes further or exceeds the limits of the initial subject.

over and above a

Highlights something additional and superior to what has been discussed previously.

more than just a

Indicates that something is not merely what it seems, but possesses further qualities or significance.

on top of a

Implies adding something extra or additional to an existing situation or item.

along with a

This alternative suggests that something is included or happens simultaneously with the original item or action.

FAQs

How can I use "besides a" in a sentence?

Use "besides a" to introduce an additional element or exception to something already mentioned. For example, "What else ("besides a duck") floats?"

What are some alternatives to "besides a"?

Some alternatives include "in addition to a", "apart from a", or "other than a", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "besides a" and "aside from a"?

"Besides a" generally adds information, while "aside from a" tends to highlight an exception or something separate. Both can often be used interchangeably, but "aside from a" has a slightly stronger sense of separation.

In what context is it best to use "besides a"?

It is best to use "besides a" when you want to introduce an additional point that supports or slightly contrasts with the initial statement. It's suitable for both formal and informal writing.