outside of the lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outside of the lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or thoughts that deviate from conventional boundaries or expectations, often in a creative context. Example: "In her artwork, she often goes outside of the lines, embracing a more abstract and freeform style."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Here's the statement that I received in response from the company spokeswoman Kim Rubey, along with my comments on what the company seems to be trying to do between (and outside of) the lines.

The New York Times

Take chances and color outside of the lines!

Huffington Post

Try to keep the scissors on the outside of the lines.

WikiHow

Using a fluffy shadow brush, blend the shaded lines well, concentrating on the outside of the lines.

WikiHow

Firmly trace the outside of the lines with a pen so that you end up embossing the card stock below.

WikiHow

If coloring outside of the lines is what he wants you to do, then do it with confidence, be the salt of the earth.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Williams repelled another match point with her own backhand winner on the outside of the line.

The New York Times - Sports

During drills this weekend, Umenyiora lined up at right end and kept circling around the outside of the line.

The New York Times - Sports

The ideal flowmeter is one that is installed on the outside of the line but gives the performance of the best flowmeters installed inside the line.

Pipeline Rules of Thumb Handbook Quick and accurate solutions to your everyday pipeline problems

Malaythong called Lin "the attack master," a player whose smashes always seemed to find the outside of the line.

The New York Times - Sports

The ball, which on television replays appeared to have caught the outside of the line, was called out.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outside of the lines" to describe creative or unconventional approaches that disregard traditional boundaries. This emphasizes innovation and a willingness to explore beyond the ordinary.

Common error

Avoid using "outside of the lines" in contexts where you literally mean outside a drawn line. This phrase is best suited for metaphorical situations involving thinking or behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outside of the lines" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate a manner of action or characteristic. It denotes behavior that deviates from conventional or expected boundaries, as supported by examples found on Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

28%

Science

18%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outside of the lines" is a prepositional phrase that describes unconventional or innovative thinking and behavior. It is grammatically correct and sees usage in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and creative fields. While not overly formal, it's a versatile phrase for expressing concepts of nonconformity and creativity. According to Ludwig, it’s important to use it metaphorically rather than literally. While alternatives exist, "outside of the lines" carries a specific connotation of artistic or imaginative deviation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beyond the boundaries

Emphasizes exceeding established limits or constraints, focusing on the concept of limits.

outside the box

Highlights innovative and unconventional thinking, focusing on the ingenuity aspect.

unconventionally

Stresses the departure from typical or standard practices, using a single adverb.

nonconformist

Highlights the resistance to established norms or standards, focusing on the rebellious aspect.

deviating from the norm

Focuses on divergence from typical or expected behavior, emphasizing the action of deviating.

pushing the envelope

Emphasizes challenging existing limits or boundaries, focusing on the challenge and experimentation.

thinking divergently

Highlights a cognitive approach characterized by exploring multiple possibilities, emphasizing a thought process.

breaking the mold

Focuses on rejecting established patterns or conventions, emphasizing the act of breaking away.

unorthodox

Highlights a departure from traditional or accepted beliefs or practices, focusing on non-traditional methods.

unconventional

Similar to "unorthodox" but with a broader application to things not conforming to usual practices.

FAQs

How can I use "outside of the lines" in a sentence?

The phrase "outside of the lines" is often used to describe thinking or acting in a way that is unconventional or innovative. For example, "She approached the problem "outside of the lines", finding a solution no one else had considered."

What does it mean to think "outside of the lines"?

Thinking "outside of the lines" means approaching problems or situations with creativity and innovation, not being constrained by traditional or expected methods. It's similar to thinking "outside the box".

Are there more formal alternatives to "outside of the lines"?

While "outside of the lines" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives include "deviating from established norms" or "employing an "unorthodox" approach", depending on the specific context.

Is "outside of the lines" the same as "outside the box"?

While similar, "outside of the lines" often implies a more creative or artistic deviation, whereas ""outside the box"" generally refers to innovative problem-solving in a business or strategic context. The phrases are often interchangeable, but this difference in connotation can be useful.