On the right/wrong side of 40, 50, etc.
idiom
Being slightly older than a mentioned age.
She's on the wrong side of 40 but still looks amazing.
Often appears as...
- on the wrong side of 30
- on the wrong side of 50
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
idiom
Being slightly younger than a mentioned age.
He's on the right side of 30 and already very successful.
Often appears as...
- on the right side of 20
- on the right side of 40
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
idiom
Being slightly older than a mentioned age.
She's on the wrong side of 40 but still looks amazing.
Often appears as...
- on the wrong side of 30
- on the wrong side of 50
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
idiom
Being slightly younger than a mentioned age.
He's on the right side of 30 and already very successful.
Often appears as...
- on the right side of 20
- on the right side of 40
Usage tips
Colloquial, Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Age sensitivity
The phrase can sound negative as it highlights someone is older than a notable age, use with caution.
She's on the wrong side of 40, which makes it harder for her in the modeling industry.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional impact
Can evoke emotion; may be perceived as a reminder of aging or lost youth.
Reaching on the wrong side of 50 can feel like a milestone to some.
Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial use
Frequently used in casual conversation rather than formal or written contexts.
My brother is on the wrong side of 40 and jokes about getting old.
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