by her side

USAGE SUMMARY

"by her side" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use "by her side" to describe someone's physical location or presence next to another person. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's support or companionship. Example: "Despite the difficult times, Sarah stood by her side and offered her unwavering support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Lusk was by her side.

Independent

First, Steve and Andrea would sit by her side.

The New Yorker

Her daughter was by her side.

The New York Times

Troubridge's prize Dachshunds are by her side.

The New York Times - Arts

I'll never be by her side".

The New Yorker

Her loved ones were by her side.

The New York Times

Tyler Summitt, 20, was by her side during her interviews.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. McCarthy stood by her side, nearly inaudible.

The New York Times

The mother, however, is asleep by her side.

The New York Times - Books

I was by her side, holding her hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was strange not seeing Carroll by her side.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by her side" to emphasize unwavering support or close physical proximity, especially in times of difficulty or celebration. This adds emotional depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by her side" when the context requires a more specific type of support. For instance, if someone is offering financial help, it's more accurate to say they are "financially supporting her" rather than simply "by her side".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by her side" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner or circumstance of an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes someone's presence or support. It often indicates physical closeness or unwavering loyalty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "by her side" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe physical presence, emotional support, or unwavering loyalty. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage in written English. It is found most frequently in news and media, reflecting its role in conveying human connections during significant moments. While generally versatile, consider more specific terms if you need to describe a particular type of assistance. Alternatives include phrases such as "supporting her" or "standing by her", offering nuances to the meaning. Understanding these nuances helps writers use "by her side" effectively to enhance the emotional impact of their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing by her

Similar meaning, focusing on loyalty and support during a difficult time.

supporting her

Highlights providing assistance and encouragement, differing by emphasizing the aid given.

backing her up

Emphasizes support and defense, shifting the focus from mere presence.

accompanying her

Focuses on the act of going along with her, differing slightly from providing support or comfort.

at her elbow

Indicates being very close and available, emphasizing proximity more than support.

in her company

Highlights being together, but less about assistance and more about presence.

assisting her

Emphasizes the act of helping, differing by concentrating on the aid provided.

nearby her

Indicates physical closeness, but omits the sense of support or companionship.

attending her

Highlights serving or taking care of someone, shifting the focus to service.

with her

A very general term indicating presence, but lacking the nuance of support or assistance.

FAQs

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

You can use "by her side" to indicate physical presence, emotional support, or unwavering loyalty. For example, "He remained "by her side" throughout her illness."

What are some alternatives to "by her side"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "supporting her", "standing by her", or "in her company".

Is it always appropriate to use "by her side"?

While generally appropriate, consider if a more specific description of support is needed. If someone is providing financial assistance, "financially supporting her" might be more accurate.

What's the difference between "standing by her" and "by her side"?

"Standing by her" often emphasizes loyalty and support during a challenge, while ""by her side"" can also refer to simple physical presence or companionship.