What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outsider
Example
As an outsider, it was difficult for me to understand the inside jokes of the group. [outsider: noun]
Example
She felt like an outsider at the party since she didn't know anyone there. [outsider: adjective]
stranger
Example
The child was warned not to talk to strangers on the street. [strangers: noun]
Example
I felt like a stranger in the new city, not knowing anyone or anything. [stranger: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stranger is more commonly used than outsider in everyday language. Stranger is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outsider is less common and is typically used in social or community contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outsider and stranger?
Both outsider and stranger are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
