Beside

Definition

Beside is a preposition that typically means "next to" or "at the side of" something or someone. It can also be used to indicate comparison or exception, as in "beside the point," meaning something that is irrelevant.

Parts of Speech

• Preposition

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈsaɪd/
• Respelling: bih-SYD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈsaɪd/
• Respelling: bih-SYD

The pronunciation of "beside" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "beside" comes from Middle English, originating from the Old English term "besīdan," where "be-" means "by" and "sīdan" means "side." This combination originally meant "by the side of" and evolved to its modern usage over time.

Derivatives

• Besides (adverb/preposition)
• Beside oneself (phrase)
• Stand beside (phrase)

Synonyms

• Next to
• Alongside
• Near

Antonyms

• Away from
• Far from
• Separate from

Usage

The preposition "beside" is used to indicate physical proximity, such as "The chair is beside the table." It can also imply comparison or irrelevance, as in "That's beside the point."

Related Terms

• Beside oneself: A phrase meaning to be extremely agitated or upset.
• Besides: Often used as a preposition or adverb meaning "in addition to" or "apart from."
• Side: Refers to the edge or position adjacent to something.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• Next to or at the side of: Used to describe physical proximity.
  • Example: "She sat beside him during the meeting."
• In comparison with: Sometimes used to express a comparison.
  • Example: "Her accomplishments seem minor beside his."
• Irrelevant to or apart from: Used in phrases like "beside the point" to indicate something that is not relevant.
  • Example: "Your argument is beside the point."