Aside

Definition

Aside is used to indicate something set to one side, physically or figuratively. It can also refer to a remark made in a way that is intended to be heard by only a select group or an internal monologue in literature or theater.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsaɪd/
• Respelling: uh-SIDE

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsaɪd/
• Respelling: uh-SIDE

The pronunciation of "aside" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "aside" originates from the Middle English phrase "a side," meaning "to one side." It combines "a," meaning "on" or "to," with "side," which traces back to the Old English "sīde," referring to the side of a body or object.

Derivatives

• Asides (plural noun)
• Set aside (phrase)
• Push aside (phrase)
• Stand aside (phrase)
• Cast aside (phrase)

Synonyms

• Separately
• Apart
• Independently

Antonyms

• Together
• Included
• Incorporated

Usage

The word "aside" is commonly used to describe setting something or someone to one side or making a secondary remark. For example, "He stepped aside to let the crowd pass," or "The actor made an aside to the audience during the play."

Related Terms

• Beside: Located at the side of something.
• Apart: Separate from others or something else.
• Exclude: To leave out or set aside from consideration.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• To one side: Indicates positioning something out of the main area or away from others.
  • Example: "He put the papers aside for later."

Noun

• A remark made in an undertone or away from the main conversation: Commonly used in theater or literature to indicate a character's thought or comment not meant for others to hear.
  • Example: "The character's humorous aside added depth to the scene."