running side by side

USAGE SUMMARY

"running side by side" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe two or more things occurring simultaneously or in close proximity. Example: The two projects are running side by side, each contributing to the overall goal. Alternative expressions include "operating concurrently" and "functioning alongside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

The event featured four drivers running side by side, instead of the typical two-lane format.

The New York Times

Maybe it's because you're running side by side and not looking at each other.

The New York Times

They seemed to be running side by side on a familiar treadmill.

The New York Times

"We'll have those choices up and running, side by side, by September," Mr. Nevels said.

The New York Times

"They were just running, side by side, not talking," she said.

The New York Times

A section of gangline for each dog or pair of dogs running side by side is about 8 feet (2.5 metres) long.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

When he saw Patrick racing toward the back of the pack, wasting time running side-by-side with another trailer, he got on the radio and explained that neither car would benefit by that tactic.

The New Yorker

A slight delay within the McLaren pit saw both Kubica and Raikkonen get out ahead of Hamilton, the BMW and the Ferrari running side-by-side towards the end of the pit lane – just as the red light came on to prevent cars leaving as other cars passed the pit exit.

The Guardian - Sport

All data were generated using a custom two-dimensional model that describes convection and diffusion in a system of two fluids running side-by-side in a duct.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

Aldoss and Obeidat[4] used the discrete vortex method to analyze the performance of two Savonius rotors running side-by-side at different separations.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Rather, Ubuntu for Android it the full Ubuntu desktop running side-by-side with Android on a shared kernel that provides context appropriate access to all your content.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "running side by side" to describe physical alignment and parallel movement, like runners in a race or roads next to each other.

Common error

Avoid using "running side by side" to describe static arrangements or items that are simply located next to each other without any implied movement or parallel action. Use "next to each other" or "beside each other" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running side by side" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier describing how something is done, or as part of a verb phrase, indicating concurrent action. As Ludwig shows, it's frequently used to describe simultaneous processes or physical movement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "running side by side" is a common and correct gerund phrase that effectively conveys simultaneous progress, cooperation, or close physical alignment. As indicated by Ludwig, it finds frequent use in News & Media and Science, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While alternatives like "operating in parallel" and "working in tandem" exist, "running side by side" provides a more accessible and dynamic expression. The key is to reserve its use for situations where simultaneous activity or movement is genuinely implied, avoiding its application to static arrangements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

side by side

Similar but more general, lacking the active "running" connotation.

alongside each other

Emphasizes the physical proximity or alignment of two or more entities.

operating in parallel

Emphasizes the simultaneous execution of processes or activities.

working in tandem

Highlights the coordinated effort of two or more entities.

coexisting

Focuses on the simultaneous existence of different entities or phenomena.

marching abreast

Implies a synchronized progression, often in a figurative sense.

advancing together

Suggests a shared goal and coordinated movement forward.

existing concurrently

Highlights the simultaneous existence of two or more things.

functioning simultaneously

Focuses on the parallel operation of systems or processes.

in conjunction

Indicates a combined or cooperative action.

FAQs

How can I use "running side by side" in a sentence?

You can use "running side by side" to describe activities happening in parallel, like "The two companies are "operating in parallel"". Or, to describe physical alignment and movement, such as "The runners were "running alongside each other"".

What does "running side by side" mean?

"Running side by side" generally means two or more entities are progressing or operating simultaneously and in close proximity. It can refer to physical movement or abstract processes occurring "existing concurrently".

Are there other ways to say "running side by side"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use phrases like "working in tandem", ""operating in parallel"", or ""existing concurrently"".

Is "side by side" the same as "running side by side"?

While similar, "side by side" implies proximity without necessarily indicating movement or active progress. "Running side by side" suggests simultaneous movement or operation. For example, roads can be "alongside each other", but runners are "marching abreast".