on the outside

on the outside

1. In external appearance or demeanor, as opposed to the true or inner nature. Other people's families always seem close and stable on the outside, but they all have their own dysfunctions and difficulties. Wow, on the outside he seems so confident and successful. I didn't realize he had been struggling with so much debt.

2. Free from or outside of prison. If you've spent enough time behind bars, life on the outside can be overwhelming.

See also: on, outside

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

on the outˈside

1 used to describe how somebody appears or seems: On the outside she seems calm, but I know she’s quite worried.
2 not in prison: Life on the outside took some getting used to again.

See also: on, outside

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017