What is alongside? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of alongside

alongsidepreposition

/əˌlɒŋˈsʌɪd/
Definition & pronunciation of alongside

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

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is generally broken into three syllables:

  • al - like the beginning of "apple"
  • ong - rhymes with "song" or "wrong"
  • side - as you'd say "side" of a building

2. Pronunciation Guide:

Here's a more detailed breakdown, incorporating sounds:

  • al: /æl/ (The "a" sound as in "apple")
  • ong: /ɒŋ/ (This is a tricky one! It’s a rounded back vowel sound, similar to the "ong" in the word "long" or "song.” Try to round your lips slightly as you say it.)
  • side: /saɪd/ (as you’d say “side”)

3. Putting it Together:

So, the whole word is pronounced something like: /ˈælɒŋsaɪd/

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • The "ong" sound: This is the biggest hurdle. Don’t try to say “long.” Focus on rounding your lips and creating that back, rounded vowel. Listening to native speakers is crucial here.
  • The "i" in "side": This "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit," not like in "site."
  • Linking: In natural speech, the "l" at the beginning of "along" often links smoothly with the “ong” sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/alongside/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • Google Translate: Type "alongside" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear the pronunciation.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce alongside" on YouTube for many videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "alongside"?

Usage and examples with the word alongside in English

Let's break down how to use the word "alongside" in English. It's a versatile word with a few slightly different nuances, but generally, it means beside something, or in conjunction with it.

Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. Physically Beside: This is the most common meaning. It describes something being next to something else.

  • Example: “We sat alongside the river, watching the boats go by.” (We were sitting next to the river.)
  • Example: “The new shop is being built alongside the existing library.” (It's being built next to the library.)
  • Example: “I prefer to work alongside a window, so I can see the view.” (I like to work next to a window.)

2. In Conjunction With / Together With: This meaning refers to something happening or being done at the same time as something else. It suggests a supportive or complementary relationship.

  • Example: “We're launching the new product alongside a major marketing campaign.” (The product launch is happening at the same time as the marketing campaign.)
  • Example: “He’s studying law alongside his engineering degree.” (He's pursuing both subjects at the same time.)
  • Example: “The government is investing in infrastructure alongside efforts to reduce carbon emissions.” (They're investing in infrastructure in conjunction with their climate goals.)

3. Figuratively – Supporting or Enhancing: Sometimes, "alongside" describes something that supports or enhances another element, even if it's not literally beside it.

  • Example: "She offered her support alongside his ambitions." (Her support was contributing to his ambitions.)
  • Example: "The museum is displaying ancient artifacts alongside modern interpretations.” (The ancient artifacts are being shown in relation to and enhancing the understanding of modern works.)

Key Differences & Synonyms:

  • Beside: Often interchangeable with "alongside," but "beside" usually implies a more immediate physical closeness.
  • Next to: Similar to "beside," focusing on the physical proximity.
  • Together with: Emphasizes the simultaneous occurrence.
  • In conjunction with: A more formal way of saying “together with” and highlighting a connected relationship.

Tips for Using "Alongside":

  • Consider the context: The meaning of "alongside" depends heavily on the sentence. Pay attention to what you're describing and what relationship you want to convey.
  • Think about the visual: If you're describing a physical location, "alongside" clearly conveys the idea of being next to something.
  • Use it with verbs: "Alongside doing something..." or "We worked alongside each other..."

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples based on a specific situation?
  • Explain how "alongside" compares to other similar words (like "beside" or "next to") in more detail?

Synonyms for the word alongside

Practice with vocabulary alongside

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The new intern worked ______ the senior manager to learn the ropes.
  2. The bakery is located ______ the park, making it a convenient spot for morning coffee.
  3. She stood silently ______ her friend during the difficult presentation.
  4. The museum is situated ______ the river, offering a beautiful view of the water.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The team collaborated ______ to complete the project on time.
    a) alongside
    b) around
    c) beside
    d) through

  2. The company operates ______ other global brands in the same industry.
    a) across
    b) alongside
    c) among
    d) against

  3. She placed the vase ______ the window for better sunlight.
    a) near
    b) alongside
    c) over
    d) under

  4. The CEO works closely ______ the board of directors to make strategic decisions.
    a) with
    b) beside
    c) alongside
    d) against

  5. The new policy was introduced ______ several other initiatives to improve employee satisfaction.
    a) among
    b) alongside
    c) between
    d) through

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The teacher worked with the students to prepare for the exam.
  2. The café is next to the bookstore, making it a popular spot for readers.
  3. The new product was launched at the same time as the marketing campaign.

Answers:

Exercise 1:

  1. alongside
  2. near/nearby
  3. alongside
  4. beside/by

Exercise 2:

  1. a) alongside, c) beside
  2. b) alongside, c) among
  3. a) near, b) alongside
  4. a) with, c) alongside
  5. b) alongside

Exercise 3:

  1. The teacher worked alongside the students to prepare for the exam.
  2. The café is located alongside the bookstore, making it a popular spot for readers.
  3. The new product was launched simultaneously with the marketing campaign.

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