on the side

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the side" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is additional to the primary topic of the sentence. For example, "He offered to do extra work on the side for some extra money."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Draw this one on the side.

WikiHow

"Dressing on the side".

The New Yorker

I gig on the side.

The New York Times

"Dickens is on the side.

The New York Times - Arts

He was on the side.

Independent

Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Independent

Err on the side of kindness.

The New Yorker

And another writes screenplays on the side.

The New York Times

He only does this on the side.

The New Yorker

Move the buckle on the side".

The New York Times

On the side of a hill.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to food, using "on the side" clearly indicates that a condiment or dish is served separately, allowing individuals to control the amount they consume. For instance, "Ask for the dressing "on the side" to manage calorie intake."

Common error

Avoid using "on the side" when you mean "on the sidelines" or "on the other hand". The phrase "on the side" implies something additional or separate, not necessarily a position of inaction or an alternative viewpoint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the side" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate how or where something is done. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, frequently showing it modifying how food items are served or how tasks are undertaken. For example, "Serve bread "on the side"" or "Do what you love "on the side"."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

41%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the side" is a versatile prepositional phrase widely used to indicate something is separate, additional, or supplementary. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly employed across various contexts, particularly in Wiki and News & Media sources. It functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to specify conditions or provide extra details. While its register is generally neutral to informal, it effectively communicates a clear and concise message. When using "on the side", consider the intended nuance and ensure it aligns with the context to avoid misinterpretations, such as confusing it with "on the sidelines" or "on the other hand".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a sideline

Implies an activity done in addition to one's main occupation or focus.

as a second job

Specifically refers to having an additional job or source of income.

as a supplement

Focuses on the supplementary nature of something, emphasizing its role as an addition.

in addition

Highlights the additive aspect, indicating something is included extra to the main element.

alongside

Indicates something placed or occurring next to something else.

extra

Simply denotes something additional or supplementary.

separately

Emphasizes the distinct and detached nature of something.

on the periphery

Indicates something is located at the edge or outer boundary, both literally and figuratively.

auxiliary

Similar to ancillary, this emphasizes a supporting or helping role.

ancillary to

Highlights a supporting or auxiliary role, often in a formal context.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the side" to indicate something is separate or additional. For example, "I ordered the salad with dressing "on the side"" or "He works as a consultant "on the side" to earn extra income".

What's a more formal way to say "on the side"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "as a supplement", "in addition", or "ancillary to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "on the side" or "at the side"?

Both phrases can be correct, but they have different meanings. "On the side" typically means separate or additional, while "at the side" usually refers to a physical location. For example, "The spare tire is at the side of the road."

What does it mean to do something "on the side"?

To do something "on the side" means to do it in addition to one's main job or activity, often for extra income or as a hobby. This is similar to having "a side hustle" or gig.