Have you ever been in a conversation where someone starts talking about something that is completely irrelevant to the topic at hand? If yes, then you might have heard the phrase “beside the point.” In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “beside the point.”
Definitions
“Beside the point” is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is irrelevant or not related to the topic being discussed. It means that the thing being talked about is not important or not significant to the conversation or argument.
Origin
The phrase “beside the point” has been in use since the 16th century. It is believed to have originated from the game of archery, where the target was the “point.” If an arrow missed the target, it was said to be “beside the point.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “beside the point” means “irrelevant” or “not pertinent.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “irrelevant to the matter in hand.”
Associations
The phrase “beside the point” is often associated with arguments and debates. It is used to dismiss an argument or point that is not relevant to the discussion.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “beside the point” include:
- Irrelevant.
- Immaterial.
- Inapplicable.
- Inconsequential.
- Unimportant.
- Extraneous.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of “beside the point” include:
- Relevant.
- Pertinent.
- Applicable.
- Consequential.
- Important.
The same root words
There are no specific root words for the phrase “beside the point.” However, the word “point” is related to the Latin word “punctum,” which means “a prick or dot.”
Example Sentences
- “I understand your point, but it’s beside the point.”
- “Let’s not get sidetracked. That’s beside the point.”
- “The fact that he’s rich is beside the point. We need to focus on his qualifications for the job.”
In conclusion, “beside the point” is an idiomatic expression that means something is irrelevant or not related to the topic being discussed. It is often used in arguments and debates to dismiss an argument or point that is not relevant to the discussion. Knowing the meaning and usage of this phrase can help you communicate more effectively in conversations and debates.