to sidle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to sidle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of moving sideways or in a stealthy manner, often to avoid detection or to approach someone quietly. Example: "She decided to sidle up to the group, hoping to overhear their conversation without being noticed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

To sidle.

The New Yorker

The darker side of life tends to sidle up on this narrative.

The Guardian - Books

Taking those words to heart, on Wednesday afternoon we decided to sidle up to the crisis with satire.

The New York Times

I half-expect Mr Carson off Downton Abbey to sidle up and ask whether everything is to Sir's satisfaction.

Independent

It's sexy but intimate; rather than demanding your attention, it invites you to sidle up next to it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The plan is for Stauffenberg to carry a briefcase bomb into the fortified bunker where he will be meeting Hitler, and then to sidle out before it blows.

The New Yorker

His sturdy baritone and sure projection make him a natural belter, but he knows how to sidle up to a melody, working quietly with tension and release.

The New York Times - Arts

Having become habituated to fishermen discarding scraps, schools of stingrays gather in the shallow waters to sidle up alongside visitors and be fed.

Independent

It took a good three or four minutes for the musicians to sidle to their places, arms filled with instruments and charts.

The New York Times

Obviously, Eustachy is not the first liquored-up coach to sidle up to a coed with a pickup line that sounds something like: "Don't you know me?

The New York Times - Sports

In their bedroom there was a space between the water bed and dresser just big enough for a girl to sidle into.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to sidle" to describe a subtle, often sideways movement, or a quiet approach intended to avoid drawing attention. It's particularly effective when portraying characters who are being coy, furtive, or unobtrusive.

Common error

While "to sidle" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more direct and professional language when describing movement in business or academic settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to sidle" functions primarily as an infinitive verb phrase, describing an action of moving sideways or approaching in a furtive or unobtrusive manner. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe both physical movement and subtle approaches to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to sidle" is a versatile infinitive verb phrase used to describe moving sideways or approaching in a subtle, often furtive, manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "to creep" or "to sneak" for different nuances. The phrase's communicative power lies in its ability to depict a cautious or unobtrusive approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to steal closer

Indicates approaching someone or something secretly and carefully, often with a sense of anticipation or excitement.

to edge closer

Indicates a gradual movement towards someone or something, often to get a better view or be nearer.

to creep

Implies a stealthy, slow movement, often to avoid being noticed, focusing on secrecy and caution.

to sneak

Suggests moving quietly and secretly, often with the intention of doing something without being seen or heard.

to inch forward

Implies moving very slowly and carefully, often due to limited space or a desire not to be detected.

to insinuate oneself

Suggests subtly and gradually inserting oneself into a situation or group, often to gain favor or influence.

to slide

Suggests a smooth, continuous movement, often sideways or across a surface.

to slip

Implies a quick, smooth, and sometimes unnoticed movement, often to avoid attention or detection.

to shuffle

Implies moving with quick, short steps, often due to discomfort or reluctance.

to drift

Suggests a slow, gentle movement, often without a specific destination or purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "to sidle" in a sentence?

You can use "to sidle" to describe moving sideways or approaching someone in a subtle or unobtrusive way. For example: "She decided "to sidle up to" the group, hoping to overhear their conversation without being noticed."

What are some alternatives to "to sidle"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to creep", "to sneak", or "to edge closer" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "to sidle" a formal or informal expression?

"To sidle" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both informal and semi-formal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, more direct alternatives might be preferred.

What does it mean when someone is described as "sidling up" to someone else?

When someone is described as "sidling up" to another person, it usually means they are approaching that person in a subtle or ingratiating manner, often with a hidden agenda or ulterior motive.