English Reference
noun

upside

n.
US /ˈəpˈsaɪd/ UK /ˈʌpsaɪd/ up·side UK spelling upsides

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    the good part of a situation that might otherwise be bad or difficult.

    the advantageous or positive aspect of a situation, particularly one that also carries significant disadvantages.

    Simple

    The job involves a long commute, but the upside is the much higher salary.

    In context

    While the restructuring will be painful for many departments, the upside is a leaner organization capable of responding faster to market shifts.

    advantagebenefitplus side
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Finance

    the possibility for a price or value to increase.

    the potential for an increase in value or price, especially in a financial market context.

    Simple

    Analysts believe there is still some upside for the company's stock price this year.

    In context

    Despite the recent volatility, the fund manager remains optimistic about the long-term upside of emerging market equities.

    Usage

    Often used with 'potential' or 'limited'.

    downside risk
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the side of something that is facing up.

    the uppermost side or portion of an object.

    Simple

    The upside of the leaf was a much darker green than the bottom.

    In context

    The upside of the fabric has a slight sheen that is not present on the reverse side.

Growing older has plenty of upsides – but achy joints is not one of them.

ScienceDaily· 16 Aug 2026

You can also place a paper towel inside a plastic clamshell, then flip the box upside down – a method that can keep spinach crisp and odorless for up to two weeks.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

From up + side.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated