A1adverb 1K

Outside

UK /["/ˌaʊtˈsaɪd/"]/ US /["/ˌaʊtˈsaɪd/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

not in a room, building or container but on or to the outside of it

Listen to definition

In simple words: Not inside; in the open air.

Examples

• I'm seeing a patient—please **wait outside**.
• I stood outside in the corridor, looking through the window.
• The house is painted green outside.
• It's warm enough to eat outside.
• Go outside and see if it's raining.
• The heat hits you as soon as you **step outside**.

Usage notes

Use 'outside' when referring to places that are open or not enclosed. Avoid in formal writing where 'external' might be preferable.

Grammar pattern

standalone preposition

Memory hint

Think of 'outside' as 'out' + 'side' - imagine stepping out to the side of a door.

Collocations

• outside world
• go outside
• play outside

Synonyms

• outdoors
• out
• external

Antonyms

• inside

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'out' or 'outdoor'.
• Using 'outside' when referring to an interior space.
• Incorrectly assuming 'outside' is used only for physical locations.