sidelines

British  

/ ˈsaɪdˌlaɪnz /

plural noun

1. sport the area immediately outside the playing area, where substitute players sit

2. the peripheral areas of any region, organization, etc

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sidelines Idioms  

1. see on the sidelines.

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Example Sentences

But since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, mortgage rates have surged, sending potential home buyers to the sidelines.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

To be sure, China, the primary buyer of Iranian oil, has largely stayed on the sidelines during the Iran war and has avoided applying pressure on Tehran to make concessions to the U.S.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

While weighing up whether to instruct Kavanagh to take a trip to the sidelines, England also looked at potential fouls by Trossard on Pablo and Declan Rice on Crysencio Summerville.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

Whether it’s a blockbuster trade that brought Doncic to L.A. or an untimely injury that sidelines the superstar guard at the most important time of the season, Redick is able to compartmentalize each day’s mission.

From Los Angeles Times • May 9, 2026

Surprised, Peanut hesitated, then broke for his basket, not noticing that Ben trailed him and not noticing that a flight jacketed figure trailed Ben on the sidelines.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy