beidseitig
on both sides
Located or taking place on both sides of something.
EXAMPLE
Bitte drucken Sie das Dokument beidseitig, um Papier zu sparen.
Please print the document on both sides to save paper.
beidseitig
on both sides / mutual
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Meanings
beidseitig
mutual
Concerning two parties or sides; mutual or reciprocal. Often used in connection with contracts or agreements.
EXAMPLE
Die Kündigung des Vertrags erfolgte in beidseitigem Einvernehmen.
The contract was terminated by mutual agreement.
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of 'beid-' (from 'beide', both) and '-seitig' (from 'Seite', side). So it literally means 'on both sides' or 'concerning both sides'.
EXAMPLE
Die Verhandlungen erforderten beidseitige Kompromisse.
The negotiations required mutual compromises.
Use as an adverb
'Beidseitig' (on both sides/mutual) can stand not only as an adjective before a noun, but also as an adverb describing a verb. In this function, it often comes at the end of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Das Formular muss beidseitig ausgefüllt werden.
The form must be filled out on both sides.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about physical objects (paper, road), it means 'on both sides'. If it is about abstract things (contracts, feelings), it means 'mutual'.
EXAMPLE
Die Straße ist wegen Bauarbeiten nur einseitig befahrbar, nicht beidseitig.
Because of construction work, the road is only passable on one side, not on both sides.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'mutual', 'beidseitig' is often used in formal or legal contexts. Typical combinations are 'beidseitiges Einvernehmen' (mutual agreement), 'beidseitiges Interesse' (mutual interest), or 'beidseitiger Respekt' (mutual respect).
EXAMPLE
Der Arbeitsvertrag wurde in beidseitigem Einvernehmen aufgelöst.
The employment contract was terminated by mutual agreement.
Compare with
beidseitig vs gegenseitig
mutual
Gegenseitig and beidseitig can refer to two parties. Gegenseitig emphasizes that an action or obligation is directed toward each other; beidseitig merely highlights that both sides are affected. Beidseitig is suitable for obligations or agreements, while gegenseitig is used for an action done for each other.
beidseitig
Der Vertrag enthält beidseitige Pflichten für die beiden Vertragspartner.
The contract contains obligations for both parties.
gegenseitig
Die beiden Vertragspartner unterstützen sich gegenseitig bei der Umsetzung des Projekts.
The two parties support each other in carrying out the project.
In real life
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