on each side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on each side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is located or occurring on both sides of an object or area. Example: "The fence has a beautiful garden on each side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I nursed the babies, one on each side.

Huffington Post

A balance weighs one object on each side.

Huffington Post

Thousands joined the battle on each side.

The New York Times

They baffle people on each side.

The Economist

The dangers are different on each side.

The Economist

Ambassadors on each side have returned home.

The New York Times

Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side.

The New York Times

Do 10 reps on each side.

The New York Times - Sports

Marines were positioned on each side.

The Guardian

Lightly brown fennel slices on each side.

The New York Times - Food

Fry for three minutes on each side.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on each side" to clearly indicate that something is present or occurs on both sides of a central object or area, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "on each side" when you mean "on every side". The former refers specifically to two sides, while the latter implies all sides of an object or area.

Linguistic Context

"On each side" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate location or position. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it specifies that something exists or occurs on two opposing or distinct surfaces, areas, or viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Wiki

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on each side" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote the presence or occurrence of something on two opposing or distinct sides of a central point. As affirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically sound and enjoys widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. It is important to differentiate it from similar phrases like "on every side" to maintain clarity. Use it to provide clear spatial or conceptual orientation in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on either side

Emphasizes the duality and can sometimes imply a choice between two sides, which "on each side" does not necessarily do.

on both sides

Highlights that there are two sides involved, placing more emphasis on the presence of two distinct entities.

either side

Shorter form, implying a choice between two options.

at each side

Slightly less common but emphasizes the location at a specific side.

to each side

Implies a direction or movement toward each side, which "on each side" doesn't always convey.

on every side

Broader in scope, suggesting something present on all sides, not just two.

at opposite sides

Highlights the opposition or contrast between the two sides.

along each side

Suggests something extending along the length of each side.

each flank

More specific to military or strategic contexts, referring to the sides of a formation.

laterally

More formal and technical, indicating a direction or position to the side.

FAQs

What is the difference between "on each side" and "on either side"?

While both phrases indicate something present on two sides, "on each side" simply states the presence, whereas "on either side" can sometimes imply a choice or possibility between the two.

When should I use "on both sides" instead of "on each side"?

"On both sides" is suitable when you want to emphasize the presence of something on two distinct and separate entities. "On each side" is a more general statement.

Can I use "on every side" interchangeably with "on each side"?

No, "on every side" implies that something is present on all sides, whereas "on each side" refers specifically to two sides.

What are some contexts where I might use "on each side"?

This phrase is commonly used in descriptions involving spatial relationships, such as "There were trees on each side of the road", or in discussions about opposing viewpoints, such as "There were strong arguments on each side of the debate".