Side by side Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

used to describe things that are close together or next to each other

Positioned or located close together or next to each other. Often used to indicate a comparison or relationship between two or more things.

beside one another, close together, next to each other.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
side by side	This is a repeat of the first entry. See context and examples provided above.
next to each other	This phrase is often used when two things or people are directly adjacent to each other. It often implies a sequence or order. The two houses are built next to each other. They sat next to each other in the theater.
close together	Use this when indicating that things or people are near each other but not necessarily in a fixed position. Often implies a less strict alignment. The chairs were positioned close together for the meeting. They sat close together on the couch.
beside one another	This phrase is generally used to indicate that two things or people are directly next to each other. It carries a more referential tone. The books are placed beside one another on the shelf. We stood beside one another during the ceremony.

Examples of usage

• We sat side by side on the couch.

• The two paintings hung side by side on the gallery wall.

• They walked side by side along the beach.

• The two teams competed side by side in the final match.

• The twins always stood side by side in photos.