Sidelines

The sidelines refer to the area immediately adjacent to a playing field, court, or track, often marked by lines, where substitutes, coaches, team personnel, and sometimes spectators gather. Figuratively, 'sidelines' can represent a position of inactivity, detachment, or limited involvement, especially in a conflict, debate, or activity. To be on the sidelines implies observing an event or situation without actively participating, thus often associated with being an observer or an outsider, rather than a direct participant or player in a game. It describes a position of less influence or power. It also represents a metaphor for withdrawal from a specific activity.

Sidelines meaning with examples

• During the football game, the injured quarterback watched his team from the sidelines, offering advice when possible. The coach and medical staff were on the sidelines attending to other injured players.
• Political commentators often analyze events from the sidelines, providing analysis on different events and political movements in the country. Their views don't take the same position as those in power.
• With his injury, the athlete was forced to sit on the sidelines for several weeks, unable to compete while he recovered. The rehabilitation process left him to wait for his moment to return to the field of play.
• Many investors opted to remain on the sidelines during the market's volatility, choosing to wait for more stable conditions before committing capital. They didn't see value in the situation.
• Due to a lack of funding, the community theater was forced to put several productions on the sidelines, hoping to secure grants before the opportunity would disappear.