on the sidelines

Idioms  

1. Observing rather than taking part, out of the action, as in Bolivia's neighbors remained on the sidelines, waiting to see which faction in the dispute would prevail. This idiom comes from sports. The sidelines are the two lines defining the sides of the court or playing field and the area immediately beyond them where, in such sports as football, the non-playing team members sit. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

Speaking to Politico on the sidelines of a European summit on Friday, the prime minister said nobody would be interested in the development "if it was not Jared".

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The rule applies to players, coaches and officials on the sidelines during matches.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

While, for now, he will sit on the sidelines, Damodaran says he would reconsider that posture if the stock drops enough.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

GM, Ford and Toyota have said they are planning for new-car sales to stagnate or shrink this year, as prospective buyers stay on the sidelines of the market.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Grandmaster Miguel Najdorf, seated on the sidelines, likened the next game, the sixth, to a Mozart symphony.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady