Definition

1. Adverb:

   • In addition; also; furthermore: Used to introduce an additional point or reason.
   • Otherwise; else: Used to indicate an alternative or something different.
   • Moreover; used to strengthen a point: Used to add a more decisive or conclusive argument.

2. Preposition:

   • In addition to; apart from: Used to indicate something is included or considered along with something else.
   • Other than; except for: Used to indicate an exclusion (though this usage is less common and can be ambiguous).

Examples of Usage

• Adverb:

  • I don't want to go out tonight. Besides, I have too much work to do. (Introducing an additional, more decisive reason)
  • The car is too expensive. Besides, we don't really need a new one. (Adding a reinforcing point)
  • She didn't call, and I didn't expect her to, besides. (Meaning 'anyway' or 'in any case')

• Preposition:

  • Besides a full-time job, he also volunteers at the shelter. (In addition to)
  • Who was at the meeting besides the committee members? (Apart from / in addition to)
  • She has no close friends besides her sister. (Other than / apart from)

Advanced Usage

• "besides" vs. "beside": It is crucial to distinguish "besides" (in addition) from "beside" (next to). They are different words.

  • He sat beside me. (Next to)
  • Besides me, only two people knew the secret. (In addition to)

• Position in a sentence: As an adverb, "besides" often begins a clause or sentence to introduce a new point. As a preposition, it is followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund.

  • Adverb: It's too late to go. Besides, it's starting to rain.
  • Preposition: Besides knowing the theory, you must also practice.

Variants and Related Words

• Furthermore (adv): In addition; moreover (more formal than "besides").
  • The plan is risky. Furthermore, it's expensive.
• Moreover (adv): As a further matter; besides (formal).
• In addition (adv. phrase): Used to add an extra piece of information.
  • In addition to his salary, he receives a bonus.
• Also (adv): In addition; too (more neutral and common).

Synonyms

• Adverb: Additionally, furthermore, moreover, also, too, as well, on top of that.
• Preposition: In addition to, apart from, aside from, over and above.

Related Phrases

• "That's besides the point": An idiom meaning "that is not relevant to the matter being discussed."
  • Whether you like him or not is besides the point; we need his expertise for this project.
• "There's no one besides...": Emphasizes that there is no other person except the one mentioned.
  • There's no one besides you that I trust with this.

Adverb

1. in addition
   • he has a Mercedes, too
2. making an additional point; anyway; besides, we can't afford it"
   • I don't want to go to a restaurant
   • she couldn't shelter behind him all the time and in any case he wasn't always with her