Meaning
"Shoulder to shoulder" is an idiomatic expression that means working together in unity, supporting each other, or standing side by side in solidarity. It conveys a sense of cooperation, equality, and mutual support.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: idiomatic phrase (adverbial phrase).
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Usage: often follows verbs like stand, work, fight, march, etc.
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Structure:
- stand/work/fight + shoulder to shoulder (with someone)
- Can be used both literally (physically standing next to someone) and figuratively (supporting or cooperating).
Common Phrases
- stand shoulder to shoulder
- fight shoulder to shoulder
- work shoulder to shoulder
- march shoulder to shoulder
Collocations
- stand shoulder to shoulder with allies
- work shoulder to shoulder for a cause
- fight shoulder to shoulder in battle
- communities standing shoulder to shoulder
Examples
- The two countries stood shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism.
- Workers and volunteers worked shoulder to shoulder to rebuild the village after the flood.
- The soldiers marched shoulder to shoulder, showing their unity and discipline.
- During the protest, people stood shoulder to shoulder demanding justice.
- Our team has been working shoulder to shoulder to meet the deadline.
- In times of crisis, families often come together and stand shoulder to shoulder.
- The two leaders promised to fight shoulder to shoulder for peace.
Synonyms or Related
- side by side
- together
- in unison
- united
Antonym
- apart
- divided
- against each other