walk side by side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'walk side by side' is correct and usable in written English.
You may use it when saying that two people are walking next to each other in the same direction. For example: The two best friends decided to take a walk together and chose to walk side by side.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

At low density, group members tend to walk side by side, forming a line perpendicular to the walking direction.

Plosone

Holding each other, trying to walk side by side.

The New Yorker

The trail was often too narrow to allow us to walk side by side.

The New Yorker

In this duet, the man and the woman at first just walk side by side.

The New Yorker

The hallway was too narrow for us to walk side by side.

The New Yorker

We begin to walk side by side up the scuffed staircase.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

We have to walk side-by-side, and that doesn't mean that we aren't going to get a bump and a bruise somewhere along the way, but we have to do it together," said Dave Vernon, director of CIT network and communications services.

Cornell University

Yoichi Morales et al. [16] presented a computational model which is constructed based on preliminary learning from trajectories of pairs of people when they walk side-by-side.

ROBOMECH Journal

I firmly believe that you lead best when you walk side-by-side with your colleagues.

Huffington Post

Watching them walk side-by-side was Major Mammaries on Parade!

Huffington Post

Despite Murakami's direct involvement in the parade, don't expect Burton to walk side-by-side with B. Boy.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a sense of unity or companionship, use "walk side by side" to create a vivid image of shared experience.

Common error

Avoid using "walk side by side" metaphorically if the context requires a stronger emphasis on agreement or collaboration. More appropriate alternatives may be more clear. For example, consider using phrases like "collaborate closely" or "work in unison" to better convey the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "walk side by side" primarily functions as a descriptive phrase. It illustrates the manner in which people are moving in relation to each other. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "walk side by side" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe individuals moving alongside one another. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's readily usable in various contexts, most frequently in news, scientific, and wiki environments. While primarily descriptive, it can also imply companionship or shared purpose. When writing, ensure that the context aligns with the intended meaning, whether literal or figurative, and consider using alternative phrases like "move alongside" or "proceed abreast" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move alongside

General term for moving in the same direction, not necessarily walking.

proceed abreast

More formal and less common way to describe walking next to each other.

stroll abreast

Implies a relaxed walk next to someone.

accompany shoulder to shoulder

Implies solidarity and mutual support, not just physical proximity.

go hand in hand

Suggests a close relationship or consequence, not literal walking.

travel together

Broader term for journeying jointly, without specifying the arrangement.

amble in company

Suggests a leisurely walk with someone, emphasizing the social aspect.

advance in lockstep

Emphasizes synchronized movement and agreement, often in a formal or rigid manner.

keep pace with

Focuses on maintaining the same speed or progress, not necessarily physical proximity.

march abreast

Specific to marching, implying a formal and orderly arrangement.

FAQs

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

You can use "walk side by side" to describe two or more people moving in the same direction alongside each other. For example, "The two friends decided to "walk side by side" through the park".

What does it mean to "walk side by side" with someone?

To "walk side by side" with someone typically means to literally walk next to them. It can also be used metaphorically to suggest support, partnership, or agreement. The context determines the intended meaning.

What can I say instead of "walk side by side"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "move alongside", "proceed abreast", or "travel together". If you're referring to more than literal walking, you might consider "go hand in hand".

Is "walk side by side" always literal?

No, "walk side by side" can be both literal and figurative. Literally, it describes the physical act of walking next to someone. Figuratively, it can represent partnership, support, or agreement. Consider the context to determine the intended meaning.