besides the point

USAGE SUMMARY

'besides the point' is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used when the speaker or writer has introduced a topic that isn't relevant to the discussion. For example, "I know you don't like broccoli, but that is besides the point - what would you like to order for dinner?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is besides the point.

Independent

The competition becomes almost besides the point.

The New York Times

"Being gay is really besides the point".

The New York Times

But that is besides the point.

The Economist

Sorry, but such humanist objections are comically besides the point.

The New Yorker

The question of whether or not imperialism had a benign side is besides the point.

The Guardian

All of this is somewhat besides the point: Cain's star has fallen.

The Guardian - Opinion

That some of those images may appear startlingly uninteresting is almost besides the point.

The Guardian - Arts

"Whether it's deserved or not is besides the point," he said.

The New York Times

In a sense, though, the cause of Sarita's death is besides the point.

Independent

Remembering Marilyn Swatches of hair dyed hundreds of shades are besides the point at Frank Cion's Great Neck color salon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "besides the point" to gently steer a conversation back to the main topic when someone introduces an irrelevant detail. For example: "That's an interesting anecdote, but it's "besides the point"; we need to focus on the budget."

Common error

Avoid using 'beside' (meaning 'next to') when you mean "besides" (meaning 'apart from' or 'except'). 'Beside the point' would incorrectly suggest something is located next to the point, rather than being irrelevant to it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "besides the point" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause or sentence to indicate that a preceding statement is irrelevant or not important to the current discussion. Ludwig shows many examples from news articles, showing the usage of "besides the point" is widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "besides the point" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to indicate irrelevance in a discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in news and media, its neutral register makes it versatile for various contexts. When using the phrase, ensure it's to redirect focus from tangential elements back to the core topic. Alternatives such as "irrelevant" or "not germane" may suit more formal settings, while avoiding confusion with 'beside' is essential. By keeping this guide in mind, you can effectively and appropriately employ "besides the point" in your writing and conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beside the mark

A figurative expression meaning not relevant or accurate.

irrelevant

This is a single-word adjective that directly describes something not being connected or important to the topic at hand.

immaterial

Similar to irrelevant, but often used in more formal contexts to indicate something lacks importance or consequence.

a moot point

Suggests the issue is no longer worth discussing, often because it's hypothetical or resolved.

not germane

A more formal synonym for irrelevant, emphasizing the lack of logical connection.

not pertinent

Similar to 'not germane', this emphasizes the lack of direct relevance or applicability.

off-topic

Indicates a deviation from the main subject under discussion.

unrelated

Simply states there is no connection between the item and the subject under discussion.

inconsequential

Highlights that something is unimportant and has little to no effect.

not applicable

Indicates that something does not apply or is not relevant in a particular situation.

FAQs

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

Use "besides the point" to indicate that something is not relevant to the current discussion. For example: "Whether or not he apologized is "besides the point"; the damage is already done."

What's a more formal way to say "besides the point"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "not germane" or "irrelevant". These options are suitable for academic or professional settings.

Is it ever appropriate to use "beside the point" instead of "besides the point"?

No, "beside the point" is grammatically incorrect in this context. "Beside" means next to, while "besides" means apart from or in addition to. The correct phrase is always "besides the point" to indicate irrelevance.

When is it best to use "besides the point" versus another phrase like "off-topic"?

"Besides the point" is useful when the information is somewhat related but doesn't contribute to the core argument. "Off-topic" is better when the information has no connection to the discussion.