Besides

Definition

Besides is a preposition and adverb used to indicate additional information or an exception. As a preposition, it means "in addition to" or "apart from." As an adverb, it means "furthermore" or "also."

Parts of Speech

• Preposition
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈsaɪdz/
• Respelling: bih-SYDZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈsaɪdz/
• Respelling: bih-SYDZ

The pronunciation of "besides" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "besides" originates from Middle English, combining "be" (by) and "side," implying "by the side of." Over time, the meaning evolved to include additional or alternative information, entering common usage in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Beside (preposition)
• Besides that (adverbial phrase)
• Besides the point (idiomatic phrase)
• Beside oneself (idiom)
• Beside (adverb, archaic)

Synonyms

• Moreover
• Additionally
• Apart from

Antonyms

• Excluding
• Minus
• Except

Usage

The word "besides" is commonly used to add or emphasize additional information in both written and spoken language. As a preposition, it indicates an addition to something or an exception. As an adverb, it is often used to introduce new points or reasons, particularly in persuasive or argumentative contexts. In everyday speech, it is used to indicate something beyond what has already been mentioned.

Related Terms

• Furthermore: An adverb used to introduce additional information.
• Moreover: An adverb used to emphasize added information.
• Except: A preposition used to indicate exclusion or exception.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• In addition to; apart from: Indicates something additional or separate.
  • Example: "Besides her job, she volunteers at the community center."

Adverb

• Moreover; also: Used to add emphasis to a new point or argument.
  • Example: "He was too tired to go out; besides, it was raining."