take a side
[/teɪk ə saɪd/]
verb phrase
tomar partido; escolher um lado
1. To choose to support one person, group, or position in a dispute or conflict rather than remaining neutral
In the argument between his two best friends, he had to take a side.
Na discussão entre seus dois melhores amigos, ele teve que tomar partido.
2. To publicly declare support for a particular position or faction
The politician refused to take a side on the controversial issue.
O político recusou-se a tomar partido sobre a questão controversa.
3. To align oneself with one party in a conflict or disagreement
She decided to take a side and joined the protest movement.
Ela decidiu escolher um lado e se juntou ao movimento de protesto.
In Brazilian culture, as well as in American culture, 'taking a side' is often expected in social and political contexts. However, in formal diplomatic or professional settings, neutrality may be valued. The phrase reflects the common human tendency to expect people to declare their allegiance, especially in moments of social division or conflict.
NYC Slang
pick a side; choose a squad
Related Idioms & Phrases
sit on the fence (antonym)
stand your ground
come down on one side of the fence
nail your colors to the mast
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →