outside

/ˈaʊtˌsaɪd/
adjectiveadverbnounprepositionBeginner
general

in or to a place that is not inside a building or vehicle

The children played outside all afternoon.

The kids spent the afternoon in the yard or garden.

💡

Can also refer to external surfaces or outer parts of something.

figurative

beyond the normal or expected limits

His behavior was outside the bounds of acceptable conduct.

His actions went beyond what is considered proper.

💡

Used metaphorically to describe things that are beyond usual standards.

Collocations

outside ofnot including or beyond a certain limitoutside worldthe world beyond a specific place or context

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

outside the boxidiom
in a creative or unconventional way
outside ofphrase
not including or beyond a certain limit

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'outside' can vary based on whether it's used as an adverb, adjective, noun, or preposition.

Gold Rule

Prepositional Use

When used as a preposition, 'outside' typically means 'not including' or 'beyond' something.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'outsyde', from 'out' + 'side'.

📝Usage Notes

Can function as an adverb, adjective, noun, or preposition depending on context.

Word Breakdown

out
not inside
prefix
+
side
surface or part
root
English Dictionary