neither side

USAGE SUMMARY

"neither side" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used when referring to two opposing groups or factions in a situation or argument. Example: "The negotiations broke down because neither side was willing to compromise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Neither side claims us.

The New York Times

Neither side is right.

The Economist

He chose neither side.

The New Yorker

Neither side, perhaps.

The Economist

Neither side was disappointed.

The New York Times - Sports

Neither side budged.

The New York Times - Sports

Neither side would quit.

Yale University

Neither side won the argument.

Independent

Neither side was completely satisfied.

The Economist

Neither side trusts the other".

The New York Times

Neither side is leaking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "neither side" when more than two parties are involved; consider using phrases like "none of the parties" or "no one" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "neither side" when referring to a situation where more than two distinct entities are involved. "Neither" specifically implies two, so use "none" or "no one" for scenarios involving three or more.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "neither side" functions as a determiner phrase, often acting as a subject or part of the subject of a sentence. It indicates that two identified groups or factions are both excluded from a particular action, characteristic, or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "neither side" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a shared condition, lack of action, or agreement between two opposing entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic writing, it maintains a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the two distinct sides being referenced, and avoid its application when more than two parties are involved. This avoids scope errors and maintains precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both parties disagree

Directly states the disagreement between the two sides.

both are at odds

Indicates a conflict or disagreement between the two sides.

no one agrees

Focuses on the lack of consensus, rather than the two-sided aspect.

there is no consensus

Emphasizes the absence of agreement.

both factions oppose

Focuses on opposition from both parties.

no accord is reached

Emphasizes the failure to reach an agreement.

both factions dissent

Highlights the disagreement and opposition.

a stalemate exists

Highlights the lack of progress or resolution.

there's a deadlock

Highlights a situation where no progress can be made.

each disagrees

Indicates individual disagreement, rather than collective.

FAQs

How can I use "neither side" in a sentence?

You can use "neither side" to indicate that two opposing groups or individuals share a similar characteristic or experience a similar outcome. For example, "In the dispute, "neither side" was willing to compromise."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "neither side"?

Alternatives to "neither side" include "both parties disagree", "no one agrees", or "there is no consensus", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "neither side" when discussing more than two groups?

No, "neither side" is specifically used when referring to two entities. When more than two groups are involved, it is more appropriate to use phrases like "none of the parties" or "no one".

What's the difference between "neither side" and "either side"?

"Neither side" indicates that both groups are not experiencing something or are not willing to do something, whereas "either side" suggests that one of the two groups will do something, but not necessarily both.