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Aside vs. Side

What's the Difference?

Aside and side are two words that are often confused due to their similar spelling and pronunciation. However, they have different meanings and uses. Aside is typically used in theater to indicate a character's dialogue that is meant to be heard by the audience but not by the other characters on stage. On the other hand, side refers to a particular position or direction, or a part or aspect of something. While aside is more specific to theater and storytelling, side is a more general term that can be used in various contexts.

Comparison

Aside
Photo by Marek Studzinski on Unsplash
AttributeAsideSide
DefinitionA piece of content that is related to the main content but can be considered separate from itA position to the left or right of an object, place, or central point
UsageTypically used in web design to provide additional information or contextCan refer to a physical location or direction
FunctionTo provide supplementary information or related contentTo indicate a position or direction relative to something else
AppearanceCan be visually distinct from the main content, often in a smaller font or different styleCan be physically located on the left or right side of something
Side
Photo by Frank Uyt den Bogaard on Unsplash

Further Detail

Definition

Aside and side are two words that are often confused due to their similar spellings and pronunciation. However, they have distinct meanings and uses in the English language.

Aside

Aside is typically used as an adverb or preposition to indicate that something is placed or positioned to one side. For example, "She set the book aside on the table." In this context, aside is used to show that the book was placed on the side of the table, not in the center.

Aside can also be used as a noun to refer to a remark or comment that is made by a character in a play, movie, or television show that is intended to be heard by the audience but not by the other characters. This type of aside is often used to provide insight into a character's thoughts or motivations.

Side

Side, on the other hand, is typically used as a noun to refer to one of the two surfaces of an object, especially the one that is not the top, bottom, front, or back. For example, "The car was hit on the side by another vehicle." In this context, side is used to describe the part of the car that was impacted in the collision.

Side can also be used to refer to a particular aspect or part of something. For example, "Let's look at the positive side of this situation." In this case, side is used to indicate a perspective or viewpoint on a given issue.

Usage

Aside is often used to indicate a physical location or position relative to something else. It is commonly used in phrases like "set aside," "move aside," or "step aside." Aside is also used in theatrical contexts to denote a character's private thoughts or comments.

Side, on the other hand, is used to describe a surface or aspect of an object or situation. It is commonly used in phrases like "on the side," "from the side," or "side view." Side can also be used metaphorically to refer to a particular perspective or stance on an issue.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between aside and side:

  • She set the bookaside on the table. (position)
  • The actor made anaside to the audience. (comment)
  • The car was hit on theside by another vehicle. (surface)
  • Let's look at the positiveside of this situation. (perspective)

Conclusion

In conclusion, aside and side are two words that have distinct meanings and uses in the English language. Aside is often used to indicate a physical position or location, as well as a character's private thoughts or comments in a theatrical context. Side, on the other hand, is used to describe a surface or aspect of an object or situation, as well as a particular perspective or viewpoint on an issue. By understanding the differences between aside and side, you can use these words correctly in your writing and communication.

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