choose sides

phrase

: to divide a group into two teams that will play against each other
When we chose sides in gym class, I was always the last person to be picked to be on a team.
often used figuratively
They are forcing us to choose sides in the dispute.

Examples of choose sides in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet, Washington's active role in shaping Iraq's political landscape and its national security doctrine may ultimately force Baghdad to choose sides, testing its ability to navigate these competing interests. Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026 Unlike organizations that choose sides, Alexander says The Carter Center is focused on the integrity of elections. Brian Unger, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2026 In Uber Eats’ ad for the championship matchup, viewers also have to choose sides. Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 3 Feb. 2026 My child should not have to choose sides. Jann Blackstone, Boston Herald, 18 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for choose sides

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Choose sides.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/choose%20sides. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!