Beside vs Besides

  In this comparison, we will examine the differences between "beside" and "besides" and provide examples to help you become comfortable using them in your daily communication.

Beside

  Let's begin by exploring "beside".

next to / at the side of

  I was sitting beside Donald at the concert.
  Our apartment was right beside the motorway, the noise was horrible.

  If you like to emphasize how two things are so close to each other, you can use "right" before "beside".

compared to

  This dress is too tight beside the red one you tried on.

  Compared to "next to", "beside" is a little bit more formal.

Besides

  It's time to dive into "besides".

in addition to / afterthought(also)

  Besides studying English, how do you like to spend your time?
  I don't want to go to the concert. Besides, I don't have money for the ticket.

  In the second example, the speaker expresses unwillingness initially and then adds the lack of money as an afterthought.

except

  Besides the salary, how is your new job?

  "besides" is less formal than "in addition to".