Meaning
一旁 refers to a position off to one side of something or someone. It indicates a nearby location that is not directly in front or center, but rather positioned laterally or adjacent. This word is commonly used to describe where someone is standing, sitting, or where something is placed in relation to the main focus of attention.
Usage
Commonly used in narrative or descriptive contexts to indicate someone's position as an observer or bystander. Often appears with verbs like 站 (to stand), 坐 (to sit), or 放 (to place). Native speakers frequently use it to describe someone waiting nearby or watching from the sidelines without directly participating.
Examples
- 01老师在讲课，我坐在一旁认真听着。, .The teacher was lecturing, and I sat to the side listening attentively.
- 02他们在讨论工作，她站在一旁没有说话。, .They were discussing work, and she stood to the side without speaking.
Characters
Common collocations
- 站在一旁to stand to one side
- 坐在一旁to sit to one side
- 在一旁观看to watch from the sidelines
Antonyms
Origin
The combination of 一 (one) and 旁 (side) literally means 'one side,' creating a spatial term that indicates a position offset from the center or main location.