steep sided

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steep sided" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe geographical features, such as mountains or cliffs, that have steep inclines on their sides. Example: "The hikers were amazed by the steep-sided cliffs that surrounded the valley."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mt. Misti is a steep sided, cone shaped volcano (5,822 m in elevation) found near the city of Arequipa in southern Peru.

BioMed Research International

For a steep sided trough, there are a limited range of parameter values that can describe the data for this model.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But a cockscomb range of steep-sided mountains divides the main island of Viti Levu, and nothing looks the same on the far side.

The New York Times

This is another steep-sided valley.

The Guardian - Travel

One example is the steep-sided Walkham valley near Grenofen.

The Guardian

Deep, steep-sided gullies cut the plateau into fantastic relief.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"We tried digging deep, steep-sided trenches around crops," he says.

The Guardian

1. Combine mussels, potatoes and wine or water in a broad, steep-sided skillet or casserole.

The New York Times - Food

Instead of a sunny plateau surrounded by gentle slopes, the site was a steep-sided valley.

The New York Times - Travel

The terrain in this region is usually irregular, with steep-sided hills and narrow valleys.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In its middle course, the river occupies a shallow but steep-sided groove.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use synonyms like "sharply inclined" or "precipitous" for variety, but ensure they accurately reflect the degree of steepness you're describing.

Common error

Avoid using "steep sided" when describing gentle slopes. This phrase implies a significant, often near-vertical, incline. Using it inaccurately can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steep sided" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies nouns, providing information about the incline or slope of their sides. As Ludwig explains, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "steep sided" is a grammatically correct and versatile descriptive phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, suitable for describing geographical features and objects with sharp inclines. While common in various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, it's essential to use it accurately to avoid misrepresenting the degree of steepness. Alternative phrases like ""sharply inclined"" or ""precipitous slope"" can add variety and nuance to your writing. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "steep sided" into your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

steeply sloping

This emphasizes the degree of steepness in the slope.

sharply inclined

This alternative directly describes the angle of the side, emphasizing the sharp incline.

sheer sided

This suggests a vertical or near-vertical side, emphasizing the abruptness.

sharply sloping

This directly describes the slope as sharp.

precipitous slope

This phrase highlights the danger and abruptness of the slope.

cliff-like sides

Compares the sides to a cliff, implying a very steep and often rocky face.

abruptly sloped

This describes the change in elevation as sudden and immediate.

vertically sided

This emphasizes the verticality of the sides.

high-sided

Focuses on the height of the sides relative to the base or surrounding area.

vertical incline

Highlights the vertical nature of the slope or side.

FAQs

How is "steep sided" used in describing geographical features?

The term "steep sided" describes landforms with sides that have a sharp, near-vertical incline. For example, "The canyon had "sheer sided" cliffs."

What are some alternative ways to describe something that is "steep sided"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "sharply inclined", "precipitous slope", or "sheer sided". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of steepness.

Is it appropriate to use "steep sided" to describe a small hill?

Generally, "steep sided" is more appropriate for significant inclines like mountains or cliffs. For a small hill, terms like "sharply sloping" or "abruptly sloped" might be more accurate.

How does "steep sided" compare to "high sided"?

"Steep sided" refers to the angle of the sides, while "high sided" refers to the height of the sides relative to the base or surrounding area. A container, for example, could be described as "high sided", whereas a mountain is more likely to be "steep sided".