on the inside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the inside" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express the idea of something being true or known about a person or thing, even if it isn't obvious from what is visible on the outside. For example, "Although his exterior was tough and rough, on the inside he was really a kind and gentle soul."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the inside?

The New York Times - Magazine

Now I'm on the inside.

The New Yorker

He is an outsider on the inside.

The New Yorker

On the inside, however, Idaville was different.

The New York Times - Books

It is not bigger on the inside.

The New Yorker

I know beauty is on the inside.

Independent

Smith is a beast on the inside.

The New York Times

On the inside, however, Isabel is screaming.

The New York Times

So much bigger on the inside".

The New Yorker

"It puts you on the inside".

The New York Times - Travel

prisoners on the inside.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the inside" to contrast the internal reality with an external appearance or perception, adding depth to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "on the inside" when there is no external contrast to be made. It's most effective when highlighting a difference between what is seen outwardly and what is experienced internally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the inside" functions as an adverbial phrase, often modifying a verb or adjective to describe an internal state or characteristic. As supported by Ludwig, it often highlights a contrast with an external appearance or perception.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

21%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the inside" is a common and versatile prepositional phrase used to express internal states, hidden realities, or contrasting inner experiences, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Grammatically sound, it appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, often to reveal contrasts between outward appearances and inner feelings. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, understanding the implied contrast is key to using the phrase effectively. Remember to use it to highlight a difference, ensuring a meaningful distinction between what is outwardly perceived and what is truly happening within.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

internally

Focuses on the inner aspect rather than a contrasting outer appearance.

inwardly

Emphasizes the subjective experience within a person's mind or emotions.

within

Refers to a location or state contained by something.

at heart

Highlights the true or essential nature of someone or something.

deep down

Suggests a hidden or underlying feeling or characteristic.

in one's soul

Indicates a profound and deeply felt emotion or belief.

beneath the surface

Points to a reality that is not immediately apparent.

in the depths of

Indicates the innermost part of something, often a feeling or emotion.

at the core

Highlights the fundamental or most important aspect of something.

in reality

Contrasts an apparent situation with the actual truth.

FAQs

How can I use "on the inside" in a sentence?

You can use "on the inside" to describe someone's internal feelings or true nature, especially when it contrasts with their external behavior. For example: "He seemed confident, but "on the inside", he was terrified."

What phrases are similar to "on the inside"?

Alternatives include phrases like "internally", "inwardly", or "at heart", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in the inside" instead of "on the inside"?

No, the correct and more common phrase is "on the inside". "In the inside" is generally considered grammatically incorrect.

When should I use "on the inside" versus "inside"?

"On the inside" is typically used to contrast internal states with external appearances. "Inside" is more general and refers to a physical location or containment. For example: "The car was clean inside", versus "On the inside, she was a mess".