The idiom “as an aside” is often used to introduce a comment that is meant to be secondary to the main topic of conversation or intended for only a select audience. These remarks are usually informal, private, or humorous and are not part of the main discussion.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of the idiom, its common usage, and provide examples to help you incorporate it effectively into your communication.
What does “as an aside” mean?
Definition:
- A comment or remark that is not part of the main discussion.
- Typically intended to be private or not heard by everyone.
“As an aside” is often used to interject a thought or humorous observation without interrupting the flow of conversation.
Examples of “as an aside” in sentences
In casual situations:
At the wedding, Tom said as an aside, “The bride doesn’t look well.”
“As an aside, I think the food here is overpriced.”
In humorous contexts:
At the ballet, Billy said as an aside to his mother, “I hope the dancers fall off the stage!”
“As an aside, if I hear this song one more time, I might go crazy!”
In formal settings:
“The professor explained the theory thoroughly, but as an aside, mentioned that it wasn’t widely accepted.”
“During the meeting, Sarah leaned over and said as an aside, ‘I think this proposal is doomed from the start.'”
How to use “as an aside” in conversation
“As an aside” is best used to add subtle humor, commentary, or personal thoughts without detracting from the main discussion.
In personal conversations:
“I agree with your plan, but as an aside, I think we should double-check the budget.”
In professional settings:
“As an aside, I think the report could benefit from a bit more detail in the conclusion.”
In storytelling:
“The character confessed his love, but as an aside, he also admitted he wasn’t sure if it was real.”
Why use “as an aside”?
This idiom adds personality and depth to communication by allowing you to make comments that are tangential or humorous. It’s an effective way to share additional thoughts without derailing the main conversation.
Conclusion
The idiom “as an aside” provides a way to introduce secondary comments or private observations in a conversation. Whether in formal or informal settings, it’s a great tool for adding humor, insight, or subtle remarks.
