on the good side

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the good side" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a positive aspect of something or someone, or when contrasting the good and bad sides of a situation. For example: "The new job had its pros and cons, but overall, I think the pros are on the good side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It is important to get on the good side of one of your instructors, so that they will feel comfortable writing an honest referral on your behalf.

WikiHow

Dan and Abra are on the good side of this equation and Rose on the evil one.

The New York Times - Books

Let's look on the good side.

The New York Times - Arts

But I'm on the good side now.

Independent

On the good side (not really), it rained heavily.

The New York Times

"The carriers have wanted to stay on the good side".

The New York Times - Tech

She's very streaky, which is good on the good side.

The New York Times - Sports

"The other 23 is on the good side now".

The New York Times - Sports

And we'll always be on the good side.

The New Yorker

Everyone wants to be on the good side now.

The Guardian

"I'm willing to look on the good side of people.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the good side", ensure clarity about what constitutes 'good' in your context. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "on the good side" when the 'good' is subjective or unclear. In such cases, opt for more neutral terms like "advantageous position" or "beneficial situation" to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the good side" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to describe a state of being or action that is considered morally or ethically positive. Ludwig shows examples in which the phrase is used to describe siding with a particular ideology or being in a favorable position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the good side" is a prepositional phrase that describes alignment with positive values or beneficial outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and common usage of the phrase. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts and functions to express ethical alignment or highlight advantageous positions. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what 'good' represents to avoid ambiguity and consider using neutral alternatives in subjective contexts. The phrase is prevalent in various authoritative sources, reflecting its widespread acceptance and utility in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the plus side

Directly refers to the positive aspects or advantages, offering a concise alternative.

on the bright side

Highlights optimistic perspective, shifting the focus from inherent goodness to optimistic outlook.

in a favorable position

Focuses on the advantage of being in a beneficial situation, shifting the emphasis from morality to strategic placement.

in a beneficial situation

Emphasizes the advantageous nature of the circumstances one is in, removing the moral implication.

experiencing positive results

Highlights the beneficial outcomes or consequences, rather than the inherent goodness of a situation.

in a winning position

Emphasizes being in a state likely to lead to success or victory, rather than moral correctness.

benefiting from a situation

Highlights the act of gaining advantages, rather than the inherent positivity.

seeing the positive aspects

Emphasizes the act of recognizing and focusing on the favorable elements of a situation.

enjoying an advantage

Focuses on the experience of having a beneficial edge or upper hand.

having the upper hand

Focuses on possessing a strategic advantage or control, rather than moral superiority.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "on the good side"?

Being "on the good side" typically implies aligning oneself with morally or ethically positive actions, viewpoints, or groups within a given context. It suggests support for what is considered right or beneficial.

How can I use "on the good side" in a sentence?

You might say, "It's important to stay "on the good side" of your supervisor to ensure positive recommendations" or "Environmentalists believe they are "on the good side" of history by advocating for sustainable practices."

What are some alternatives to saying "on the good side"?

You can use alternatives like "in a favorable position", "on the plus side", or "on the bright side" depending on the context.

Is it always clear what constitutes being "on the good side"?

No, what is considered "on the good side" can be subjective and depend on cultural, ethical, or personal perspectives. In situations with moral ambiguity, it's important to clarify the values and principles underlying the assessment of 'good'.