either side

USAGE SUMMARY

"either side" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when discussing two distinct choices or options. For example: "We can go to the park or the beach - either side is a good option."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Two degrees, either side".

The New York Times

Sterling scores either side of Markovic strike.

BBC

From either side".

The New York Times

Armies mass on either side.

The New York Times

There are parlors on either side.

The New York Times

Mankind are standing on either side.

The New Yorker

To either side lay seemingly impenetrable swamps.

The New York Times

And no embarrassment on either side.

The New York Times

Two Kurdish flags hang on either side.

The Economist

Either side can terminate his contract.

The New York Times - Sports

The arguments did not help either side.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "either side" to indicate options or possibilities, ensuring the context clearly presents only two choices. For example, "You can approach the problem from "either side": with optimism or with caution."

Common error

Avoid using "either side" when more than two options are available. Using "any side" or "any of the sides" is more appropriate when dealing with multiple possibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "either side" functions as an adverbial phrase or prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by indicating direction, location, or choice. Ludwig examples show it used to describe physical positions, options in a debate, or choices in a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "either side" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote a choice between two options, a position on the left or right, or opposing viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to academic writing. Its frequency and neutral register make it suitable for diverse communicative purposes. Remember to use it when only two options are available, and consider related phrases like "both sides" or "on either hand" for semantic variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on either hand

Similar meaning, but slightly more formal or archaic.

on the two sides

More descriptive and less idiomatic.

from both viewpoints

Highlights different perspectives or opinions concerning a topic.

from different angles

Highlights differing viewpoints or approaches to a situation.

on both flanks

Emphasizes the positional aspect, focusing on the sides in a military or strategic context.

from opposing factions

Focuses on conflicting groups or parties.

on both aspects

Focuses on different facets or perspectives of a situation.

on the left or right

Specifies the directions, providing clarity.

on both hands

Highlights options or actions available from both sides.

in each direction

Focuses on spatial orientation or movement.

FAQs

How can I use "either side" in a sentence?

Use "either side" to refer to one of two options, directions, or opposing groups. For example, "The path has obstacles on "either side"" or "Either side can appeal the court's decision."

What are some alternatives to "either side"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "both sides", "on either hand", or "from both viewpoints" as alternatives to "either side".

Is it correct to use "either sides" instead of "either side"?

No, "either side" is the correct form. The word "either" implies a choice between two, so "side" remains singular. "Sides" would be used if referring to multiple sides in a non-binary context.

What's the difference between "either side" and "both sides"?

"Either side" refers to one of two options or surfaces, whereas "both sides" indicates both options or surfaces are being considered or affected. For example, "You can choose "either side" of the argument" versus "Both sides of the paper were covered in notes".