besides
prep. · adv.-
1 in addition to (prep.) B1 Intermediatein addition to something; as well as.
in addition to or as well as something else. Often used to introduce a list of items or people that are being included in a statement.
ExampleBesides the salad, we ordered two large pizzas for the group.
ExampleBesides the primary funding from the government, the research project received several private grants from international environmental organisations.
- plus
- as well as
PitfallBeside my parents, my brother also came.Besides my parents, my brother also came.Use 'besides' for 'in addition to'. 'Beside' (without the 's') means 'next to'.
-
2 except for (prep.) B1 Intermediateother than or except for.
other than; used to indicate an exception or the only remaining option in a set.
ExampleThere was no one in the office besides the security guard.
ExampleThe witness claimed she saw no one else at the scene besides the defendant, though the lighting was admittedly poor.
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
-
3 giving a stronger reason (adv.) B1 Intermediate Informalyou use this to add an extra, often more important, reason for something.
used as a conjunctive adverb to introduce an additional, often more persuasive or conclusive, point or reason.
ExampleI don't want to go to the party; besides, I have too much work.
ExampleThe company cannot afford a new marketing campaign this quarter; besides, our current strategy is still yielding significant growth in the target demographic.
UsageUsually placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to add a final point.
-
4 otherwise (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediatein other ways or in addition to what has been mentioned.
otherwise; in addition to what has already been stated or considered.
ExampleShe is a bit shy, but besides that, she is a great leader.
ExampleThe engine has a minor oil leak, but besides that, the vehicle is in excellent mechanical condition for its age.
From Middle English bisides (also bisiden), extension of biside, equivalent to beside + -s (adverbial suffix).