In this idiom question, choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the expression “the seamy side”.

Introduction / Context:
The expression “the seamy side” is used in English to describe the dark, unpleasant or morally ugly aspect of something, such as society, city life or a glamorous profession. The word “seamy” comes from “seam”, referring to the rough inner side of a garment where the seams show. In this idiom question you must pick the option that best explains this figurative meaning in simple words.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The idiomatic phrase is “the seamy side”.
• The task is to choose the closest explanation.
• The options are: on the right side, unpleasant aspect, visible aspects, on the left side of something.

Concept / Approach:
When we say “the seamy side of life” or “the seamy side of the city”, we mean the parts that are hidden, dirty, corrupt or morally questionable. It is a contrast to the bright, attractive, polished side that people proudly display. The correct alternative must therefore convey the notion of an unpleasant or sordid aspect, not a physical direction such as right or left, nor the neutral idea of something merely visible.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Fix in mind that “the seamy side” refers to the dark, unpleasant or morally ugly aspect of something. Step 2: Examine option a) “on the right side”. This option introduces physical direction and does not mention unpleasantness. Step 3: Examine option b) “unpleasant aspect”. This accurately summarises the idiomatic sense. Step 4: Examine option c) “visible aspects”. Visibility is neutral and does not carry a negative meaning. Step 5: Examine option d) “on the left side of something”. Again, this talks only about direction, not about negative qualities. Step 6: Conclude that option b) is the correct explanation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use an example: “The documentary showed the seamy side of the fashion industry, including exploitation and harsh working conditions.” Here, the phrase clearly refers to the unpleasant, hidden realities behind the glamorous surface. If we replace it with “the unpleasant aspect of the fashion industry”, the sentence still carries the same meaning. Substituting “right side”, “visible aspects” or “left side” would not capture this negative sense and would sound odd or meaningless. This confirms that “unpleasant aspect” is the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“On the right side” and “on the left side of something” both talk about position in space and do not express any moral or aesthetic judgement. “Visible aspects” simply means the parts that can be seen; the seamy side is often hidden rather than openly visible. None of these options convey the idea of something ugly, sordid or morally questionable. Only “unpleasant aspect” summarises the idiom accurately.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners guess based on the unfamiliar word “seamy” and link it to “seem” or “see”, leading them towards “visible aspects”. Others think that any phrase containing “side” must refer to left or right. The correct way is to remember common collocations such as “seamy side of life” and to study idioms as whole units. Creating your own example sentences and reading them aloud can help fix both form and meaning in your memory.

Final Answer:
“The seamy side” means the unpleasant aspect of something, especially of life or society.