What is sideways? Pronunciation and usage in English

sideways means . Learn how to pronounce and use sideways through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of sideways

sidewaysadverb

/ˈsʌɪdweɪz/
Definition & pronunciation of sideways

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sideways." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • "Sid": This is pronounced like "seed" – similar to the word "seed." The "i" is short and sharp.
  • "Ways": This is where it gets a little tricky. It’s not pronounced like "ways" as in "a way to do something." Instead, it's pronounced like "weez." Think of the "ee" sound in "see" but with a slightly softer "z" at the end.

2. Putting it Together:

So, "sideways" is pronounced: "seed-weez"

3. Emphasis:

The emphasis (stress) is on the first syllable: "seed-weez."

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "side-ways." That’s a very common error.
  • Avoid a drawn-out "eez." Keep it quick and light. It’s more like a single, soft "z" sound.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "sideways" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/sideways/ - This website has audio pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce sideways" and you'll find many videos.

To summarize: "seed-weez" is the key.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
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Usage and examples with the word sideways in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sideways" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different meanings. Here's a breakdown of its common uses, with examples:

1. Physically - To Move Horizontally

  • Meaning: This is the most straightforward definition – to move or be positioned horizontally, not straight up and down.
  • Examples:
    • "He drove his car sideways through the narrow alley."
    • "The dog leaned sideways against me, trying to get a scratch."
    • "The painter added a sideways glance to the portrait, giving it a subtly mischievous look."

2. Figuratively - Indirect, Subtle, or Avoiding Directness

  • Meaning: This is where "sideways" gets really interesting. It often describes communication that isn't direct, honest, or straightforward. It can imply evasion, hinting, or a lack of clarity.
  • Examples:
    • "He gave me a sideways comment about my new haircut." (Meaning: He didn’t say it directly, but it was a subtle criticism.)
    • "She responded sideways to my question, avoiding answering it outright." (Meaning: She wasn't clear or direct in her response.)
    • "The politician’s speech was full of sideways references to the scandal." (Meaning: He hinted at the scandal without actually confronting it.)
    • “Instead of telling me the truth, he offered a sideways explanation.” (He was giving an evasive answer.)

3. Describing a Position or Direction (Often used with "side"):

  • Meaning: Talking about something located on or facing a side.
  • Examples:
    • "The sideways view of the ocean from the balcony was breathtaking."
    • "He leaned against the wall on the sideways." (Meaning: on the side of the wall)
    • “The exhibit featured artwork displayed sideways on the gallery wall.”

4. (Less Common) In Sports - A Sideways Pass/Shot

  • Meaning: In sports like football, hockey, or basketball, a “sideways pass” is a pass thrown horizontally, not forward.
  • Example: "He made a clever sideways pass to break the defense."

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Tone: “Sideways” often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of honesty or directness.
  • Context is Crucial: The specific meaning of “sideways” will depend heavily on the context of the sentence.

Resources to Help You Understand Further:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "sideways" in? (e.g., writing a story, a conversation, an essay?)
  • What is the general context you're thinking of?

Synonyms for the word sideways

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