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outside
/ˈaʊtˌsaɪd/
in or to a place that is not inside a building or vehicle
We decided to have our picnic outside.
We chose to eat our meal in an open area rather than indoors.
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
Related Phrases
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
prefixside
surface or part
rootEnglish Dictionary