on the other side of the desk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the other side of the desk" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe a location, such as in the sentence, "He stood on the other side of the desk, facing the window."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"It's incredible to be on the other side of the desk," she says.

MIT Technology Review

Only this time, we're on the other side of the desk.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

On the other side of the desk, Hina looked deeply engrossed in her work, her face inches from her monitor.

The New Yorker

"You feel you are being interviewed," he said, from an identical red plastic chair on the other side of the desk, trying combat but failing to be fierce.

The New Yorker

But after a year of being on the other side of the desk, I've realized that we are the ones who are visitors in their lives.

The New York Times

After 10 minutes or so, you hate the customer almost as much as you hate the apparatchik on the other side of the desk.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Taking on two interns this summer helped me to develop my knowledge on hiring difficulties from the other side of the desk and to fine tune my advice to help you land yourself that perfect job.

Huffington Post

She leaned over to pick something up from the other side of the desk, and immediately I became afraid.

The New Yorker

Writing a Publishable Journal Article: A Perspective From the Other Side of the Desk, by Sharon Nancekivell, 16 April 2004.

Science Magazine

At one time Mr. Levy was on the other side of the sports desk.

The New York Times

Those who have been on the other side of the interviewing desk can tell you how being overly committed to your success can negatively affect your chances of getting a job.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "on the other side of the desk" to effectively convey a shift in perspective or role, especially in professional or interpersonal contexts. It adds a layer of understanding and empathy to your writing.

Common error

Don't use "on the other side of the desk" when you simply mean something is physically located across a desk. Ensure the context implies a change in role, perspective, or experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the other side of the desk" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate a change in role, perspective, or experience. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's considered grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the other side of the desk" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to denote a shift in perspective, role, or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts but also appears in formal business and academic settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly implies a change in viewpoint rather than a simple physical location. Alternatives like "from a different perspective" or "in the opposite role" can be used for slight variations in meaning or formality. This phrase effectively adds depth and insight to your writing by highlighting a newfound understanding or empathy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from a different perspective

Focuses on the shift in viewpoint rather than the physical location.

in the opposite role

Highlights a change in roles or responsibilities.

having a different position

Emphasizes the alteration in status or function.

experiencing the opposite viewpoint

Focuses on understanding a contrary opinion.

with reversed responsibilities

Highlights a change in duties and tasks.

in the interviewer's chair

Specifically refers to the position of conducting an interview.

taking the opposite seat

Emphasizes the physical act of changing locations or positions.

from the reverse angle

Emphasizes the view from different perspective.

with roles inverted

Focuses on the roles been swapped between the actors of the situation.

having the alternative function

Indicates the performance of an alternative task.

FAQs

How can I use "on the other side of the desk" in a sentence?

You can use "on the other side of the desk" to describe a shift in perspective or role, as in, "After being a student for years, she found herself "on the other side of the desk" as a teacher."

What's a more formal alternative to "on the other side of the desk"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "from a different perspective" or "in the opposite role", depending on the specific context.

How does using "on the other side of the desk" enhance my writing?

The phrase "on the other side of the desk" adds depth by implying a change in viewpoint or experience, making your writing more relatable and insightful.

Is "on the other side of the desk" only applicable in professional settings?

While often used in professional contexts, "on the other side of the desk" can apply to any situation where roles or perspectives shift, such as in personal relationships or educational settings.