Reading Theme:
Besides: Definition, Examples, and How to Use (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：in addition (besides)
besides
/bɪˈsaɪdz/
prep.
showing that something extra is included in addition to what you've already said.
in addition
➕
/ɪn əˈdɪʃən/
prep.
Used to add one or more items to a previous statement, indicating something extra is included.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From 'by' (near) + 'side' (flank/edge) + adverbial '-s'. Literally 'by the side of'.
💡 Mnemonic
Picture a main dish with a small plate BESIDE it holding extra food. The side plate holds the 'besides' information.
📖 Example
We plan to go to the park besides visiting the museum tomorrow.
Tomorrow's plans include the park as an extra activity in addition to the museum visit.
🔗 Collocations
something besides – an additional thing, different from what was just mentioned
nothing besides – emphasizes that only the mentioned thing is present, with no additions
and besides – used to introduce an additional point in a series
🔄 Synonyms
in addition to (prep.) – As an extra element or item; used before nouns or noun phrases.
apart from (prep.) – With the exception of; or in addition to, depending on context.
as well as (conj.) – In addition to; used to link items of equal importance.
🚫 Antonyms
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'besides' evolved from the literal meaning 'by the side of' to its modern function of introducing an additional item or reason. Its semantic shift mirrors the logical connection between spatial adjacency ('beside') and conceptual addition.
Meaning 2：furthermore (besides)
besides
/bɪˈsaɪdz/
prep.
used to give another reason or point in an argument or discussion.
furthermore
➕
/ˌfɜːrðərˈmɔːr/
prep.
Used to introduce a new, often stronger or more persuasive point that supports or explains the previous statement.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
I don't want to go for a walk; it's getting dark. Besides, I'm a little tired.
The initial reason is the fading light, and an additional, reinforcing reason is personal tiredness.
🔗 Collocations
besides which – used to introduce a decisive additional fact or point
🔄 Synonyms
furthermore (adv.) – In addition to what has been said; used to add a point that strengthens the argument.
moreover (adv.) – As a further matter; used to add information that supports or emphasizes the point.
also (adv.) – In addition; used to introduce another relevant point.
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