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side effects vs a side effect

Both 'side effects' and 'a side effect' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Side effects' is used when referring to multiple effects that occur as a result of a particular action or treatment. 'A side effect' is used when referring to a single effect that occurs alongside the main intended effect.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 573 views

side effects

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to multiple effects that occur as a result of a particular action or treatment.

Use 'side effects' when talking about multiple effects that occur as a result of a particular action or treatment. It is a plural form.

Examples:

  • The medication may have some side effects, such as dizziness and nausea.
  • One of the side effects of the treatment is increased appetite.
  • Tell your doctor about side effects you are experiencing, so you get the care and treatment you need to manage these problems. Credit: iStock. Cancer treatments ...
  • May 1, 2020 ... Why does chemo cause side effects? Cancer cells tend to grow fast, and chemo drugs kill fast-growing cells. But because these drugs travel ...
  • Statin side effects: Weigh the benefits and risks. Statins are effective at lowering cholesterol and protecting against a heart attack and stroke, although they ...
  • Jun 1, 2017 ... The majority of studies were performed for treatment of epilepsy and psychotic disorders. Here, the most commonly reported side effects were ...
  • Though it's often well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. CBD can also interact ...

Alternatives:

  • adverse effects
  • unintended consequences
  • secondary effects
  • undesirable effects
  • concomitant effects

a side effect

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a single effect that occurs alongside the main intended effect.

Use 'a side effect' when talking about a single effect that occurs alongside the main intended effect. It is a singular form.

Examples:

  • Fatigue is a common side effect of the medication.
  • The new software update had an unexpected side effect on system performance.
  • It's a side effect of increased cranial pressure.
  • That is a side effect of their ordinary operation.
  • The attack was just a side effect.
  • Time is thus quite simply a side effect of awareness.
  • That's a side effect of not dying.
  • Light sensitivity isn't a side effect of Lexapro, Tate.
  • I think the memory problems are either liver toxicity or a side effect of medication.
  • Short-term memory loss is a side effect of Depakote.
  • That kid underneath, whoever it is, just a side effect.
  • It's a side effect of this medication.
  • It also might be a side effect.
  • Hypoglycemia, a side effect of all Western diabetes medications.
  • Low serum calcium is a side effect of the treatment.
  • This is a side effect of zero matter.
  • I thought this must be a side effect of these sessions.
  • My whole life's a side effect.
  • It seems you discovered a side effect.
  • It... it's a side effect of your poor circulation.
  • Probably just a side effect of the collapsing bubble.
  • So looking younger could be a side effect.

Alternatives:

  • an unintended consequence
  • an adverse effect
  • an unexpected outcome
  • an additional effect
  • an accompanying effect

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