on the outside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'on the outside' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to mean something looks one way on the surface but may be different underneath. For example: The family put on a united front, but on the inside they were all at odds.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Strike two called on the outside corner.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm on the outside.

The New York Times

On the outside".

The New Yorker

He's on the outside.

The New York Times

Jackson started on the outside.

The New Yorker

"On the outside is amazing.

The New Yorker

(Morgan is also experienced on the outside).

The New York Times

But others are left on the outside.

The Economist

PRISONER 2: See ya on the outside.

The New Yorker

"Economically, we are still on the outside".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"People on the outside know that.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the outside" to contrast appearance with reality, showing a difference between what is visible and what is actually happening.

Common error

Avoid using "on the outside" when simply describing a physical location without implying a contrast or hidden aspect. For example, don't say "The handle is on the outside" if you just mean that's where the handle is located, rather, indicate exactly where it is placed: "The handle is located externally".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the outside" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to provide information about location, appearance, or state of exclusion. Examples from Ludwig showcase it describing external features or conditions as per Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the outside" is a common and versatile phrase used to describe external appearances, conditions, or locations, often in contrast to an internal reality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's frequently found in news and media, wiki content, and scientific articles. While there are several alternatives, such as "externally" or "outwardly", the choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance. Remember to use "on the outside" when indicating contrast or a position of exclusion, and be cautious not to use it simply as a descriptor of location.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

externally

Focuses solely on the external aspect, removing any implication of exclusion or location.

outwardly

Similar to 'externally', emphasizing how something appears from an external perspective.

on the exterior

More formal and directly refers to the outer surface or appearance.

on the surface

Highlights the superficial or apparent aspect, often contrasting with a deeper reality.

not involved

Shifts the focus to a lack of participation or inclusion, implying exclusion.

excluded

Directly states the state of being left out or not included.

not included

Similar to 'excluded', but perhaps less forceful in its connotation.

peripheral

Indicates a position at the edge or boundary, either physically or metaphorically.

at the margin

Implies a position on the edge of something, often suggesting less importance or influence.

on the periphery

Similar to 'peripheral', highlighting a position away from the center.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the outside" to describe an external appearance, a position of exclusion, or a location that is not internal. For example, "On the outside, the building looked sturdy, but inside it was crumbling."

What's a good alternative to "on the outside" when describing appearance?

When describing appearance, alternatives like "externally" or "outwardly" can be used instead of "on the outside". These emphasize the visible aspect without necessarily implying a contrast.

When is it appropriate to use "on the outside" versus "outside"?

"On the outside" is often used when contrasting an exterior with an interior or implying exclusion. "Outside" is more general and simply refers to a location that is not inside. For example, "The car is parked outside" versus "On the outside, he seemed calm, but he was panicking."

Is "on the outside" formal or informal?

"On the outside" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "externally" may be preferred in highly formal writing.