flat side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flat side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a surface that is even and level, often in contexts related to geometry, design, or physical objects. Example: "The table has a flat side that makes it easy to place items on without them rolling off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mash garlic with flat side of knife.

The New York Times - Food

Top with second layer, flat side down.

The New York Times

"You're just a little on the flat side," she said.

The New York Times

A swat from the flat side crushes garlic or spices.

The New York Times - Magazine

Cut pieces in two lengthwise and lay flat side down.

The New York Times

She turned the loaf to assess its flat side, and gave it a surprisingly vigorous punch.

The New Yorker

Using tongs, turn the leeks so that the flat side is up.

The New York Times - Health

The investigation is conducted on two configurations of hull form; Flat Side Inward (FSI) and Flat Side Outward (FSO) configurations.

Scientia Iranica

Spread the flat side of one cookie with chocolate and press its partner, flat side to chocolate, making a sandwich.

Huffington Post

Place each eggplant half flat side up; top with coconut oil, harissa sauce and orange juice.

Huffington Post

Is there a flat side?

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the orientation of an object, use "flat side" to clearly indicate which surface should be facing up, down, or outwards.

Common error

While "plane side" might seem like a suitable substitute, "flat side" is generally preferred in most contexts. Reserve "plane side" for strictly technical or mathematical discussions involving geometric planes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flat side" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as an adjective modifying another noun, specifying which side of an object is being referenced. Ludwig shows examples of its usage in various contexts, confirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "flat side" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a surface that is even and level. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable across diverse contexts, ranging from cooking instructions to technical descriptions. While alternatives like "level surface" exist, "flat side" remains a direct and effective choice. Common writing advice includes using it to clarify object orientation, while avoiding confusion with more technical terms like "plane side".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

level surface

Focuses on the evenness of the surface, rather than the side itself.

even plane

Similar to level surface, emphasizing the consistent height and direction of the side.

plane surface

More formal term that is synonymous with planar face but less technical.

planar face

More technical and geometric, emphasizing the two-dimensional nature of the surface.

flush surface

Indicates that the side is even with another surface.

smooth surface

Highlights the texture and lack of irregularities on the side.

stable surface

Highlights the stability that the flat side provides.

horizontal surface

Describes the orientation of the surface relative to the ground.

unobstructed surface

Emphasizes the lack of obstacles or features on the side.

level area

Broader than "flat side", encompassing the entire area rather than just the side.

FAQs

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

You can use "flat side" to describe the orientation of an object, as in "Place the onion "flat side" down on the cutting board."

What is the difference between "flat side" and "level surface"?

"Flat side" refers to a specific side of an object that is flat, while "level surface" describes any surface that is even and horizontal. The terms are often interchangeable, but their precise meaning can depend on context.

Which is the correct term, "flat side" or "plane side"?

While both terms can be used, "flat side" is more commonly used in everyday language to describe a flat surface of an object. "Plane side" is mainly used in geometry or technical drawings.

What are some alternative ways to describe a "flat side"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "level surface", "smooth surface", or "planar face".