Slurs can also indicate expressive phrasing.
In string music, if the composer wishes to suggest an expressive phrasing, this must be done in addition to the slurs which indicate bowing directions. Short slurs follow the direction of the notes they connect. To make the slur clear, it is better for it to extend a little outside of the staff than to be obscured by staff lines. When all stems are in the same direction, the slurs should be placed on the notehead side. If there is a mix of upward and downward stems, the slur always goes above the notes.