taking no sides

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking no sides" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing neutrality or impartiality in a situation or discussion. Example: "In the debate about the new policy, the moderator made it clear that she was taking no sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Bush is properly taking no sides in this internal struggle, but few in Washington doubt that the hope in the White House is "Arik now, Bibi later".

The New York Times

Meanwhile, taking no sides in this altercation, I have come across a story that shows just how effective traditional newsprint newspapers can be.

The Guardian

Brusilov recorded in his memoirs, "[Michael] was an absolutely honourable and upright man, taking no sides and lending himself to no intrigues ... he shunned every kind of gossip, whether connected with the services or with family matters.

Wikipedia

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said on Wednesday that Beijing was taking no sides in the crisis, and that he was "deeply pained" by the suffering of the Syrian people, though his remarks did not suggest China's diplomatic position will change.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

When the president talks about how the territorial sovereignty of Georgia must be respected, isn't that taking no side at all? Bill Richardson is on, anyway, touting Obama's diplomacy over Bush/McCain's policy of "isolation" (which isn't the most precise term in the world).

Huffington Post

Bloch takes no sides but takes us through a story that is sensational enough 1.

Independent

But America claims to take no sides in the South China Sea's territorial squabbles.

The Economist

A young half-Aboriginal labourer visits revenge on his white tormentors, but miraculously, Schepisi takes no sides.

The Guardian - Film

"Expedition 6," more edited than written, questions the value of the United States space program, but takes no sides.

The New York Times

I take no sides or pleasure in this action; I only represent one individual, my 10-year-old, Ryan.

The New York Times

As I said, I take no sides about the authenticity or appeal of any of the sources for "Hoffmann".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking no sides" to clearly communicate your neutrality in a potentially divisive situation. This helps build trust and avoid alienating individuals with differing opinions.

Common error

Ensure that "taking no sides" is not perceived as a lack of care or concern. While neutrality involves refraining from favoring one side, it doesn't mean ignoring the issue altogether.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking no sides" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a deliberate choice to remain neutral in a disagreement or conflict. Ludwig examples show it often describes actions by individuals or organizations seeking to avoid bias or maintain impartiality.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "taking no sides" is a common and grammatically correct way to express neutrality in a dispute. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often used in contexts where impartiality is important. While alternatives like "remaining neutral" or "being impartial" exist, "taking no sides" offers a clear and direct way to communicate your stance. Be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation as indifference, and ensure your actions reflect genuine neutrality rather than a lack of concern. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, reflecting its use in objective reporting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remaining neutral

Focuses on the state of being neutral rather than the action of not taking sides.

being impartial

Highlights fairness and objectivity, suggesting a lack of bias.

staying neutral

Implies a conscious effort to maintain neutrality.

not taking sides

A more direct and literal restatement of the original phrase.

remaining objective

Emphasizes a focus on facts and evidence, avoiding subjective opinions.

keeping an open mind

Suggests a willingness to consider all perspectives without pre-judgment.

avoiding partisanship

Specifically refers to avoiding alignment with any particular party or faction.

sitting on the fence

An idiomatic expression for remaining undecided or neutral.

declining to choose a side

Explicitly states the refusal to align with any particular group.

playing it safe

Suggests that neutrality is a cautious approach to avoid conflict.

FAQs

What does it mean to "take no sides"?

To "take no sides" means to remain neutral and impartial in a dispute or conflict, refraining from supporting any particular party or viewpoint. It implies a conscious decision to avoid bias and maintain objectivity.

When is it appropriate to "take no sides"?

It's appropriate to "take no sides" when you need to remain objective, such as when you're a mediator, a judge, or a journalist. It's also suitable when you lack sufficient information to form a valid opinion, or when taking sides would be detrimental to your relationships.

What are some alternatives to saying "taking no sides"?

You can use alternatives like "remaining neutral", "being impartial", or "staying objective" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "taking no sides" the same as being indifferent?

No, "taking no sides" is not the same as being indifferent. While both involve a lack of alignment, "taking no sides" is a conscious decision to remain neutral, while indifference implies a lack of interest or concern.