onside
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɒnsaɪd/
KK: /ˈɑnˌsaɪd/
adjective
Definition
In a legal position to play or receive the ball or puck in sports, meaning not offside.
Example
The player was onsides when he received the pass from his teammate.
Conversation
Did you see that goal? He was clearly onside when he scored!
I know, right? The referee made the right call this time.
It was such a close play, but I'm glad he was onside.
Definitely! It made the game so much more exciting.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
legal
valid
permitted
Antonyms
offside
illegal
prohibited
adverb
Definition
In sports, being in a position where a player can legally play or receive the ball or puck.
Example
The player was onsides when he received the pass from his teammate.
Conversation
Did you see that last play?
Yeah, it was incredible how he stayed onside!
I thought he was going to be called offside for sure.
Root Explanation
**Onside** → The word 'onside' is formed from 'on' (meaning in a position of) and 'side' (meaning a position or location). The term 'onside' refers to being in a position that is considered legitimate or acceptable, especially in sports contexts.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'in a position' ('on') that is 'acceptable' ('side') — that's what 'onside' means.
Visually Confused Words
yonside
oside
townside
pondside
openside
ironside
downside
consider