outside the compound

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outside the compound" is correct and usable in written English.
Example: The rioters were forced to disperse outside the compound.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Outside, the compound was a wreck.

The New York Times

Outside the compound, the misery is astounding.

The New York Times - Travel

His family was led outside the compound.

The New York Times

Whether cameras were mounted outside the compound is unclear.

The Guardian

There is one diversion available outside the compound.

The New Yorker

For a few days, TV trucks parked outside the compound.

The New Yorker

Some of the women worked outside the compound.

The New York Times

Outside the compound walls, a skirmish had flared between Israel's Army and Palestinian militants.

The New York Times

The man fled when gunfire erupted outside the compound, according to Amnesty.

The Guardian

The cars parked outside the compound were mostly inexpensive family saloons.

The Guardian

Then it occurred to me to go outside the compound to a pay phone.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "outside the compound", ensure the context clearly defines what the "compound" refers to. For instance, specify the type of compound (e.g., "military compound", "residential compound") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "outside the compound" without first establishing what the compound is. Readers need to understand the reference point to grasp the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outside the compound" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by indicating location. It specifies where something is in relation to a defined enclosure. Ludwig AI shows examples of this usage across various news sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "outside the compound" is a prepositional phrase commonly used to denote a location external to a defined and often secured area. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage in News & Media. To ensure clarity, specify the type of "compound" being referenced. Alternatives include "beyond the perimeter" or "exterior to the complex". This phrase is generally neutral in register and effectively conveys spatial information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beyond the perimeter

Replaces "compound" with "perimeter", focusing on the boundary.

external to the enclosure

Uses "enclosure" as a synonym for "compound" and "external" for "outside".

exterior to the complex

Substitutes "compound" with "complex", a more general term, and uses "exterior" instead of "outside".

beyond the walls

Highlights the physical barrier of the compound.

off the grounds

Emphasizes the area surrounding the main property.

outskirts of the compound

Specifies the outer edges of the area around the compound.

in the area surrounding the compound

More descriptive and less direct than "outside the compound".

surrounding the installation

Replaces "compound" with "installation", suitable for military or industrial contexts.

away from the secured area

Emphasizes the security aspect of the compound.

in the vicinity of the compound

Focuses on the nearby area, rather than directly outside.

FAQs

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

You can use "outside the compound" to describe actions, locations, or events occurring in the area external to a secured or defined complex. For example, "The protesters gathered outside the compound".

What are some alternatives to saying "outside the compound"?

Consider using alternatives like "beyond the perimeter", "exterior to the complex", or "off the grounds" depending on the specific context. Each phrase offers a slightly different nuance.

Is it necessary to define what the "compound" is when using the phrase "outside the compound"?

Yes, defining the "compound" is crucial for clarity. Without a clear reference, the phrase becomes ambiguous. Ensure the context establishes what the compound refers to before using the phrase.

In what kind of writing is "outside the compound" most commonly used?

As evidenced by Ludwig, "outside the compound" is frequently found in "news and media" reporting, particularly when describing events related to secured locations, military installations, or residential complexes.