generally side with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally side with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a tendency to support or agree with a particular viewpoint or group in a discussion or debate. Example: "In most political discussions, I generally side with the progressive candidates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Wood is a classic swing voter, while Welch and McClure generally side with one party.

The Washington Post

Congress hears from few lobbyists for outside groups on electric-industry issues -- save for some consumer groups that generally side with the nonprofits.

The New York Times

When asked who they would generally support on occasions when there was a disagreement between the US and EU countries, 37% of UK respondent said they would tend to support America; just 10% would generally side with Europe.

The Guardian

In short, these are nationalists, after all, who generally side with the government on political questions such as whether people should be allowed to go into the streets to protest.

The New York Times

Not counting the Minnesota seat, the Democrats have a 58-to-41 58-to-41 58-to-41cans in thedgenate, with twover those 58 seats held by independents, Joseph I. LiebeRepublicansnectinuthend Bernard Senates of Vermont, withgenerally side witwothe Demofrathose

The New York Times

Bernanke's writings are complex but generally side with the pro-Roosevelt view that government needs to keep the economy out of trouble.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The chamber's lone independent, James M. Jeffords of Vermont, generally sides with the Democrats.

The New York Times

In his ruling today, Judge Sargus, a Clinton appointee, generally sided with that view.

The New York Times

In the comments on the article, readers are generally siding with Uber in this fight.

The New York Times

Mantineia generally sided with Sparta, especially during the revolt of the Messenian helots (464 bc).

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the House, he has generally sided with conservatives on budget issues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally side with" when you want to express a common but not absolute alignment with a particular viewpoint or group. It implies a tendency rather than a steadfast adherence.

Common error

Avoid using "generally side with" when you want to express a complete, unwavering agreement. Instead, use phrases like "strongly support" or "completely agree with" to convey stronger conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally side with" functions as a verb phrase indicating a tendency to support or agree with a particular person, group, or viewpoint. It expresses a common but not absolute alignment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally side with" is a grammatically sound expression that indicates a tendency to support or agree with a particular viewpoint or entity, though not necessarily in every instance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Usage is most prevalent in news and media contexts, suggesting its utility in describing tendencies or common alignments. When using this phrase, ensure that the context aligns with the implication of qualified support, and consider stronger alternatives if a complete agreement is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically support

Emphasizes habitual support or agreement.

usually align with

Highlights the alignment or agreement in viewpoints.

tend to agree with

Focuses on a disposition or inclination to agree.

often favor

Indicates a preference or inclination toward something.

lean towards

Suggests an inclination or tendency in a particular direction.

incline to support

Formally conveys a tendency to back or advocate for.

are disposed to agree with

More formally indicates a natural tendency to concur.

gravitate towards

Suggests a natural attraction or movement toward a position.

show a preference for

Highlights a demonstrated bias or favoring of something.

are partial to

Indicates a bias or inclination toward a particular choice.

FAQs

How can I use "generally side with" in a sentence?

You can use "generally side with" to indicate a tendency to agree or support a particular viewpoint or person. For example, "In political debates, I "generally side with" the progressive candidates".

What are some alternatives to "generally side with"?

Alternatives include "typically support", "usually align with", or "tend to agree with", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "generally side with" in formal writing?

Yes, "generally side with" is suitable for formal writing, but consider stronger alternatives like "strongly support" or "consistently agree with" for emphasis if necessary.

What's the difference between "generally side with" and "always side with"?

"Generally side with" implies a frequent but not constant agreement, while "always side with" suggests unwavering support in every situation.