side of tears

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "side of tears" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or emotion where someone is experiencing sadness or grief, often in a poetic or metaphorical context. Example: "In the quiet moments of reflection, she found herself on the side of tears, overwhelmed by memories of lost love."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Laughter is the flip side of tears, so do not be surprised if when you are sad sometimes (such as at a funeral), the laugh will win through.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A root tear is reportedly difficult to diagnose because meniscal tissue is noted only on one side of the tear [23] and may not be visible in about one third of MRI scans [5].

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Backstitch to secure the seam and then sew along the unravelled section of the seam until you meet the stitching on the other side of the tear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To this end Dr Swain has developed a novel form of suturing that involves poking folded T-shaped fasteners through the tissue on either side of a tear or incision, each connected to thread.

The Economist

"If people opt out, it defeats the whole purpose, because I wouldn't want the houses on either side of me torn down and replaced with town houses, which would happen".

The New York Times

Anna reaches out for her father, but she disappears on the other side of the tear – save for her little finger, the end of which is sliced off.

Vice

Apply pressure with your finger and thumb by gripping either side of the tear.

WikiHow

The assembled have grown accustomed to sipping lattes with gingerbread syrup, a drop of marshmallow and a less desirable side serving of tear gas.

The New York Times

Have someone support the the area from beneath with a backup timber while you drill small screw holes an inch or so away from the tear along both sides of the tear.

WikiHow

During the 27 May 1987 show at Rome's Stadio Flaminio – the opener of that tour's second leg, and the first in Europe – 35,000 people sang along to the song's "Ha la la la de day" refrain, bringing a side-of-stage Brian Eno to tears.

Wikipedia

He said the officer spoke with Ms. Torres after she had left a bar in Shirley and pulled her car over to the side of William Floyd Parkway in tears following a fight with her boyfriend.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "side of tears" sparingly to maintain its impact. Overuse can dilute its emotional effect. Consider alternative phrases for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "side of tears" in literal contexts. It's a figurative expression, so ensure your sentence maintains a metaphorical or emotional tone. Using it literally could sound awkward or nonsensical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "side of tears" functions as a noun phrase, often used figuratively to describe a state or condition characterized by sadness or potential for tears. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, suggesting it depicts a situation or emotion related to sadness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "side of tears" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though relatively uncommon. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for describing scenarios or feelings tinged with sadness, but should be used sparingly for maximum impact. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, this phrase offers a figurative way to express emotional vulnerability, inviting a compassionate response. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "verge of tears" or "brink of tears".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verge of tears

Focuses on the imminence of crying, suggesting a state very close to tears.

on the brink of tears

Similar to "verge of tears", it emphasizes the precariousness of holding back tears.

close to tears

Indicates proximity to crying, highlighting the emotional vulnerability.

in a flood of tears

Emphasizes the overwhelming nature of crying, suggesting a profuse release of tears.

drowning in sorrow

Uses metaphorical language to convey a deep sense of sadness and despair.

awash with grief

Suggests being completely surrounded and affected by intense grief.

overcome with sadness

Highlights the feeling of being overpowered by intense sadness.

consumed by despair

Emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of despair, suggesting a loss of hope.

laden with grief

Suggests being burdened or weighed down by sorrow.

gripped by anguish

Indicates being seized or overcome by intense emotional pain.

FAQs

How can I use "side of tears" in a sentence?

You can use "side of tears" to describe a situation or emotion where someone is experiencing sadness or grief. Example: "In the quiet moments of reflection, she found herself on the "side of tears", overwhelmed by memories of lost love."

What can I say instead of "side of tears"?

You can use alternatives like "verge of tears", "on the brink of tears", or "close to tears" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "side of tears" or "sea of tears"?

"Side of tears" is a phrase that depicts a metaphorical location or experience of sadness, while "sea of tears" depicts an abundance of tears. The choice depends on the context.

What's the difference between "side of tears" and "verge of tears"?

"Side of tears" describes a state or condition of being near sadness. "Verge of tears" indicates the moment right before crying.