Beside Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
beside
[bษชหsaษชd ]
Definitions
preposition
at the side of; next to.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| beside |
Indicates close proximity, often used to describe someone or something standing or placed next to another object.
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| next to |
Directly adjacent or immediately adjoining, often used to emphasize the immediate proximity of objects or people.
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| alongside |
Used when something is positioned parallel to something else, often implying a supportive or collaborative relationship. It can be used both literally and figuratively.
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| by |
Indicates nearness or closeness, often used in a more casual or broad sense. It can also imply ownership or authorship.
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Examples of usage
- she sat beside him
- the cat slept beside the fireplace
adverb
at or to the side of someone or something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| beside |
This word is used to indicate that something is next to or at the side of something else. It suggests close proximity but not necessarily direct contact.
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| nearby |
This word refers to something that is close in location but not necessarily right next to something else.
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| alongside |
This word suggests parallel position or movement together with something or someone else. It conveys a sense of coordination or joint action.
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| by |
This word indicates proximity or location near something, often used to describe where something is in relation to another object.
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Examples of usage
- he stood beside me
- the book was lying open beside the bed
noun
a side or edge.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| beside |
Used to indicate being next to or very close to something or someone.
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| side |
Used to refer to a surface or area of an object, person, or location that is distinct from its front, back, top, or bottom.
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| edge |
Used to describe the outermost limit, boundary, or margin of an object or area, often where it falls off or meets a different surface.
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| border |
Used to describe the line or boundary separating two areas, such as countries, regions, or properties.
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Examples of usage
- she traced the lines of the map, marking the hills and valleys, the beside where she had lived
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, 'beside' is often used to express emotional closeness, like a character being beside a loved one during tough times.
- Notable writers, including Shakespeare, frequently used the term to emphasize proximity in their plays and poems.
- The phrase 'beside the point' is commonly used to indicate something that is not relevant or important to the discussion.
Psychology
- Feeling 'beside oneself' is a psychological expression indicating a state of intense emotion, often relating to stress or joy.
- Research shows that being physically close to others can enhance feelings of safety and belonging.
- Interpersonal relationships often improve when individuals have regular, face-to-face interactions, reinforcing the concept of 'beside' as a positive factor in social bonds.
Music
- The phrase 'by your side' is often used in lyrics to convey support and companionship, closely related to the concept of 'beside'.
- Many songs emphasize the importance of having someone beside you in times of need, highlighting emotional connections.
- In various musical forms, the idea of 'beside' can be interpreted as togetherness and support in both lyrics and melodies.
Cultural Expressions
- 'Side by side' is a common expression in many cultures denoting unity, cooperation, or partnership.
- Different languages have their own versions of 'beside', strengthening the idea of togetherness across cultures.
- In group rituals or celebrations, being 'beside' one another often symbolizes solidarity and mutual support.
Origin of 'beside'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'beside' comes from Old English 'besidean', combining 'be' (near) and 'side' (the next part).
- It was used in English as early as the 14th century, reflecting a long-standing sense of proximity.
- The prefix 'be-' typically indicates involvement or being near, which is a common theme in many similar English words.
The word 'beside' originated from Middle English, from Old English 'be sฤซdan', meaning 'by the side'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to indicate proximity or position next to something or someone. Over time, 'beside' has become a common preposition and adverb in modern English, frequently used in everyday conversations and written texts.
See also: aside, downside, inside, outsider, side, sidearm, sidebar, sidekick, sideline, sidelong, sides, sidewalk, sideward, sideways, siding, subside.