choose sides
idiom
: 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 figurativelyThey are forcing us to choose sides in the dispute.
Examples of choose sides in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The current system forces people to choose sides — not find solutions.
—
Dana Afana, Detroit Free Press, 4 Dec. 2024
Once Ireland’s election result is clear, the first task for its leaders may be to choose sides – solidarity with Europe and active participation in the EU defence effort, or a singular, eccentric relationship with the Trump administration.
—Mike O'Sullivan, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024
Friction point: DeSantis' run for president created a rift among Florida Republicans, forcing them to choose sides between the governor and Trump.
—Jeff Weiner, Axios, 23 Nov. 2024
The good news is that most brands don’t need to choose sides on emotionally divisive or polarizing topics.
—Rytis Lauris, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for choose sides 
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Dana Afana, Detroit Free Press, 4 Dec. 2024
Once Ireland’s election result is clear, the first task for its leaders may be to choose sides – solidarity with Europe and active participation in the EU defence effort, or a singular, eccentric relationship with the Trump administration.
—Mike O'Sullivan, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024
Friction point: DeSantis' run for president created a rift among Florida Republicans, forcing them to choose sides between the governor and Trump.
—Jeff Weiner, Axios, 23 Nov. 2024
The good news is that most brands don’t need to choose sides on emotionally divisive or polarizing topics.
—Rytis Lauris, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for choose sides
Dictionary Entries Near choose sides
Cite this Entry
“Choose sides.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/choose%20sides. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.
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