sides
n.-
1 surfaces or edges (n.) A1 Beginnerthe flat surfaces or edges of an object.
the bounding surfaces or edges of a three-dimensional object or two-dimensional shape.
ExampleA cube has six flat sides that are all the same size.
ExampleThe architect designed the building with glass sides to ensure that every office received an equal amount of natural light throughout the day.
-
2 opposing teams or groups (n.) A2 Elementarythe different teams or groups in a game, argument, or war.
opposing factions, teams, or parties in a conflict, competition, or debate.
ExampleBoth sides agreed to stop fighting and talk about a peace deal.
ExampleIn a legal dispute of this magnitude, both sides usually spend months reviewing evidence before the actual trial begins.
Show 3 more sensesShow fewer
-
3 aspects of a situation (n.) B1 Intermediatethe different ways of looking at a problem or situation.
distinct aspects, perspectives, or points of view regarding a single issue or situation.
ExampleYou need to consider all sides of the argument before making a choice.
ExampleThe documentary attempts to show all sides of the environmental crisis, interviewing both corporate leaders and local activists.
-
4 side dishes (n.) B1 Intermediate Cookingsmall portions of food served with a main meal.
subsidiary food items served alongside a primary course.
ExampleWe ordered a steak with sides of fries and a green salad.
ExampleThe restaurant is famous for its creative sides, which often overshadow the traditional meat dishes on the menu.
- accompaniments
- side orders
-
5 side effects (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Slang Medicineunwanted physical feelings caused by a medicine.
a shortened form of 'side effects', referring to secondary, typically undesirable, results of a drug or medical treatment.
ExampleThe doctor warned me that these pills might have some nasty sides.
ExamplePatients often stop taking their medication because the sides, such as nausea and fatigue, become too difficult to manage daily.
UsageCommonly used in medical or fitness communities as a clipping of 'side effects'.
- 01
butter one's bread on both sides
To profit from two things at the same time, especially when those things seem contradictory or incompatible.
- 02
play both sides against the middle
To manipulate opponents or competitors in a manner which benefits the manipulator.
- 03
split one's sides
To laugh hysterically.