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

See Examples For:

on the sidelines

Besides, when so many investors are bullish, there are fewer people on the sidelines to buy stocks and push them higher.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 19, 2026

Buyers remain on the sidelines due to high borrowing costs; home sellers in many parts of the U.S. are consequently struggling to sell homes.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 18, 2026

“And then we have several brands that are sitting on the sidelines, that want to enter the space, but don’t know how to navigate it.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 18, 2026

Enjoy your retirement with guys on the sidelines, and keep your football legacy alive and well.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2026

“You should come by the courts one night. Hang out on the sidelines or something.”

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy