besides - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
besides Word Meanings
- in addition to something
- also; furthermore
- except for; other than
besides Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
besides Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bɪˈsaɪdz/
US
/bɪˈsaɪdz/
besides Word Etymology
(a) Root decomposition: be- prefix + side root, forming beside; an -s suffix later attaches to yield besides. (b) Historical origin: from Old English beside (be- + side); development in Middle English extended the sense to mean in addition. (c) Memory image: picture a traveler standing by the side of a road, with a be- badge on the side, and the idea growing into besides as an extra thought.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the jar and move it a little, feeling the shelf tilt under my fingers. I set a second item beside it and push the others back to keep the space neat. As I pause, I notice the word besides on a note and let it settle in my mind, a hint of something more. The small adjustments make the scene feel wider, and I decide what counts besides the main thing.
Real Context
Besides is a versatile adverb used to add information beyond what has already been stated. It often means in addition to something, or also; it can also introduce a contrast or a restriction when used with the sense of exception: "besides that, I won’t go." In everyday speech, besides frequently appears with phrases like besides you, besides being late, or besides the point. When replacing with also or moreover, be mindful of tone and emphasis: besides adds both extra detail and a subtle contrast. It is common in American and British English alike, and it is accepted in formal writing as well as casual conversation.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use besides to add information, not to change the main clause.
- 2) It can introduce an exception in some contexts: there was nobody besides his wife.
- 3) Pair with nouns or with phrases like besides that.
- 4) More informal than moreover; nuance of extra emphasis.
- 5) Remember the common confusion with beside, which means physically next to.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing besides with beside (physical position).
- Assuming besides always means 'except for' rather than 'in addition to'.
- Using besides at the start of a sentence in formal writing when not appropriate.
- Mistaking it for a synonym of also in every context.
- Forgetting that besides can take the form 'besides that' to add a clause.
Thinking Differences
Learners often treat besides as a simple synonym of also; in many languages the equivalent emphasizes adding new detail rather than contrast. English users must watch for the nuance of contrast or exception, and for the form besides that introduces a clause.
Learning Tips
- Create short phrases with besides to practice adding information.
- Compare sentences with also and besides to feel the nuance.
- Use besides that to add a second clause when helpful.
- Avoid starting a sentence with besides in very formal writing.
- Differentiate besides from beside by meaning, not spelling.
- Practice listening for the subtle contrast it can introduce.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'besides' mean?
A.Thrilled
B.Simple
C.Moreover
D.Outrageous
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'besides' correctly?
A.He drinks tea, besides coffee.
B.The sky is blue, besides the grass.
C.I like to read besides watching TV.
D.She loves pizza, besides chicken nuggets.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'besides'?
A.Delicious
B.Motion
C.Except
D.Friendly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'besides'?
A.Outside
B.Within
C.Content
D.Dangerous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'besides'?
A.I like to swim in the pool during summer.
B.Besides studying, she also works part-time to earn extra money.
C.He is good at playing basketball.
D.She enjoys reading books and listening to music in her free time.
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