When you're learning Chinese, you'll find words like 门外 (mén wài), which means 'outside the door'. It's a very practical phrase. Think of 门 (mén) as 'door' and 外 (wài) as 'outside'.
So, putting them together simply means 'outside the door'. You might use it to say someone is waiting outside the door, or that something is located just outside the door. It's straightforward and useful in many daily situations.
When you're talking about something being right outside the door, you'll use 门外 (mén wài). This phrase literally means "door-outside." It's a common and straightforward way to indicate a location.
Think of it as the immediate area just beyond a door, whether it's the entrance to a building or a room. It's a very practical phrase to know for describing where things are in everyday situations.
When we talk about locations in Chinese, we often add direction words like 上 (shàng, up/above), 下 (xià, down/below), 里 (lǐ, inside), and 外 (wài, outside) after the main noun.
For example, 门 (mén) means door, so 门外 (mén wài) literally means 'door outside', or 'outside the door'.
You'll see this pattern a lot: noun + direction word. It's a fundamental way to describe where things are.
So, if you hear 门外, you know exactly where someone is talking about – right there, on the other side of the door!
When we talk about locations in Chinese, we often add a directional word after the noun. In this case, 门 (mén) means "door," and 外 (wài) means "outside." So, when you put them together, 门外 (mén wài) literally translates to "door outside" but means "outside the door." This is a common pattern in Chinese. You might also hear 门里 (mén lǐ) for "inside the door" or 门上 (mén shàng) for "on the door." This structure helps to be very precise about where something is located in relation to another object.
When we talk about "门外" (mén wài), we're literally saying "outside the door." It's a straightforward way to describe a location. Think of it like this: if you're inside, and something is just beyond the door, it's 门外. This can be used for people, objects, or even sounds. For example, if someone is knocking, you might say "有人在门外敲门" (Someone is knocking outside the door).
门外 in 30 Seconds
- 门外 means 'outside the door.'
- It's a very common and practical phrase.
- Use it for spaces just beyond an entrance.
§ What does it mean and when do people use it?
Let's get straight to it. You've encountered 门外 (mén wài), and you want to know what it means and how to use it. No fancy explanations, just the facts.
- DEFINITION
- 门外 (mén wài) directly translates to 'outside the door'. It's a noun, and it describes a location.
Think of it as a very common and practical way to specify a position. If something is not inside, and it's near the entrance, 门外 is your word. It's used in everyday conversations, simple directions, and descriptions of where people or objects are located.
Here are some common scenarios where you'll hear and use 门外:
People waiting: If someone is waiting for you, they might be waiting 门外.
他在门外等你。
He is waiting for you outside the door.Objects placed outside: If you leave something just outside the entrance, you'd use 门外.
请把鞋放在门外。
Please put the shoes outside the door.Sounds coming from outside: When you hear something from beyond the threshold, it's coming from 门外.
门外有声音。
There's a sound outside the door.
It’s important to note that 门外 is quite specific. It implies a direct proximity to the door. If something is further away, like in the street, you'd use other terms like 街上 (jiē shàng - on the street) or 外面 (wài miàn - outside, generally). 门外 is for that immediate area right outside the entrance.
Another thing to remember is its grammatical function. 门外 acts like a location noun. This means it can often be preceded by prepositions like 在 (zài - at, in, on) or 从 (cóng - from), though sometimes it stands alone, especially when the context is clear.
他在门外等我。
He is waiting for me outside the door.
我听到声音从门外传来。
I heard a sound coming from outside the door.
In summary, 门外 is a straightforward term for 'outside the door'. Use it when you need to specify a location that is immediately adjacent to and outside of an entrance. It's a common, practical word that you'll use frequently in daily Chinese conversation.
§ Understanding "门外"
The Chinese word "门外" (mén wài) literally translates to "door outside." It's a useful phrase for describing something located just beyond the entrance of a building or room. Think of it as a specific directional term that tells you where something is in relation to a door. It's often used when you're talking about someone waiting, an object being left, or an event happening immediately outside a doorway.
- DEFINITION
- Outside the door.
Let's break it down:
- 门 (mén): door
- 外 (wài): outside
When you put them together, "门外" creates a clear and concise description of location. It's not just "outside" generally, but specifically outside the door.
§ How to use it in a sentence — grammar, prepositions
Using "门外" is straightforward. It usually follows the noun it modifies or comes after a verb indicating placement or movement. It functions as a locative phrase, telling you where something is.
You can use "门外" directly after a verb of existence or placement like 有 (yǒu - to have/there is/are), 在 (zài - to be at/in/on), or 放 (fàng - to put/place).
有人在门外等你。
There is someone waiting for you outside the door.
请把鞋子放在门外。
Please put the shoes outside the door.
It can also describe the location of an action, telling you where something is happening.
门外很吵。
It's very noisy outside the door.
When describing movement towards the outside of a door, you might use verbs like 走到 (zǒudào - walk to) or 跑到 (pǎodào - run to) followed by "门外."
他走到门外。
He walked outside the door.
Remember, "门外" is a very specific directional term. It's not just "outside" in general. If you want to say something is just generally outside, you would use "外面" (wàimiàn) or just "外" (wài) in some contexts. "门外" specifically refers to the area directly adjacent to the door.
§ Common Uses and Contexts
You'll frequently hear "门外" in situations where someone is arriving, leaving, or waiting. It's a crucial phrase for giving clear instructions or describing simple scenes.
- Waiting: When someone is waiting for you to open the door.
- Placing objects: When an item is placed just outside the threshold.
- Describing an external sound or activity: When something is happening right beyond the door.
快递员在门外。
The delivery person is outside the door.
请把垃圾放在门外。
Please put the trash outside the door.
门外有狗叫声。
There's a dog barking outside the door.
§ Understanding 门外
Let's get straight to it. 门外 (mén wài) simply means 'outside the door'. It's a very practical phrase you'll hear and use often. Think about it: how many times a day do you talk about something being 'outside the door'?
- DEFINITION
- Outside the door.
§ 门外 at work
In a work setting, 门外 can come up in many casual conversations. You might be talking about a delivery, a visitor, or even just someone waiting.
- Waiting for someone:
有人在门外等你。
Translation hint: Someone is waiting for you outside the door.
- Talking about a package or delivery:
包裹在门外。
Translation hint: The package is outside the door.
§ 门外 at school
At school, 门外 is useful for describing where students are, or where things are located in relation to a classroom.
- A student waiting to enter:
他站在教室门外。
Translation hint: He is standing outside the classroom door.
- Something placed outside:
把鞋子放在门外。
Translation hint: Put the shoes outside the door.
§ 门外 in news or general situations
In news reports or general discussions, 门外 can refer to a location outside a building or a specific area. It's not just about literal doors; it can be more broadly 'outside an entrance'.
- Reporting on an event outside a building:
许多人聚集在商店门外。
Translation hint: Many people gathered outside the store door.
- Someone waiting at an entrance:
他站在电影院门外。
Translation hint: He stood outside the cinema door.
So, there you have it. 门外 is a straightforward and highly useful phrase. Practice these examples, and you'll find it popping up naturally in your Chinese conversations.
Alright, let's talk about 门外 (mén wài) – 'outside the door'. It seems simple, right? But even with straightforward words, learners often trip up. This section will highlight the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
The biggest mistake people make is using 门外 when they mean 'outside' in a general sense, not specifically 'outside the door'. Remember, 门外 is quite literal. If you just mean 'outside' in the general vicinity, you'll need other words.
§ Mistake 1: Using 门外 for General 'Outside'
Many learners incorrectly use 门外 when they want to say 'it's cold outside' or 'let's go outside'. While literally 'outside the door', it doesn't carry the broad meaning of 'outside' as an area or environment. If you're talking about the weather or just stepping out into the open air, 门外 is usually not the right choice.
外面很冷，多穿点衣服。(Wài miàn hěn lěng, duō chuān diǎn yī fú.) - Outside is very cold, wear more clothes. (Correct)
*门外很冷，多穿点衣服。(Mén wài hěn lěng, duō chuān diǎn yī fú.) - Outside the door is very cold, wear more clothes. (Incorrect for general 'outside')
§ Mistake 2: Confusing 门外 with other directional words
Chinese has many words for direction and location. It's easy to mix up 门外 with similar-sounding or related terms like 里面 (lǐ miàn - inside), 上面 (shàng miàn - above), or 下面 (xià miàn - below). Remember that 门外 is specifically about the 'door' and 'outside' it.
- DEFINITION
- 门外 (mén wài): Directly outside the entrance or exit of a building or room.
While 门外 is useful, don't overextend its meaning. Always consider the specific context. Are you talking about the area immediately adjacent to a door, or just 'outside' in a broader sense? This distinction is crucial for sounding natural.
§ Mistake 3: Omitting the '门' when it's needed
Sometimes learners might try to shorten 门外 to just '外' (wài) when they specifically mean 'outside the door'. While '外' can mean 'outside' in some contexts, it doesn't carry the specificity of 'outside the door' on its own. If the door is the reference point, keep 门 in there.
他在门外等我。(Tā zài mén wài děng wǒ.) - He is waiting for me outside the door.
*他在外等我。(Tā zài wài děng wǒ.) - He is waiting for me outside. (Less specific, might not mean 'outside the door')
The key takeaway here is precision. 门外 is a precise term. Use it when you mean 'outside the door', and opt for broader terms like 外面 (wài miàn) or 外头 (wài tou) when you just mean 'outside' in general. Pay attention to the specific noun (门 - door) that 门外 is modifying.
§ Quick Review
- Do not use 门外 for general 'outside'. Use 外面 (wài miàn) or 外头 (wài tou) instead.
- Remember 门外 is specific to the 'door'.
- Keep 门 (mén) in 门外 when the door is your reference point.
By keeping these points in mind, you'll use 门外 correctly and sound much more natural in your Chinese conversations. Keep practicing, and you'll get it right!
How Formal Is It?
"请在门外等候。 (Qǐng zài ménwài děnghòu.) - Please wait outside the door."
"他在门外。 (Tā zài ménwài.) - He is outside the door."
"你可以在门外抽烟。 (Nǐ kěyǐ zài ménwài chōuyān.) - You can smoke outside the door."
"小狗在门外玩。 (Xiǎogǒu zài ménwài wán.) - The puppy is playing outside the door."
"别当门外汉。 (Bié dāng ménwàihàn.) - Don't be an outsider/amateur. (Idiomatic usage, not literal 'outside the door' slang)"
Fun Fact
This compound is a straightforward combination, common in Chinese for creating directional or positional terms by adding '内' (nèi, inside), '上' (shàng, up/on), '下' (xià, down/under), etc., to a noun.
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
他在门外等你。
He is waiting for you outside the door.
Simple present tense.
我听到门外有声音。
I heard a sound outside the door.
Using '有' to indicate existence.
请把鞋子放在门外。
Please put the shoes outside the door.
Imperative sentence with '请'.
孩子在门外玩。
The children are playing outside the door.
Present continuous tense indicated by context.
门外很冷，穿多点衣服。
It's cold outside the door, wear more clothes.
Two clauses joined by a comma.
他站在门外看着我。
He stood outside the door looking at me.
Using '着' to indicate continuous action.
我看到一只猫在门外。
I saw a cat outside the door.
Simple past tense.
门外有人敲门。
Someone is knocking on the door outside.
Using '有人' to indicate an unknown person.
他在门外等了很久。
He waited outside the door for a long time.
请把鞋子放在门外。
Please put your shoes outside the door.
我听到门外有声音。
I heard a sound outside the door.
她站在门外，犹豫着要不要进来。
She stood outside the door, hesitating whether to come in.
快递员把包裹放在了门外。
The delivery person left the package outside the door.
我们一起去门外散步吧。
Let's go for a walk outside the door together.
门外下着大雨。
It's raining heavily outside the door.
我看到我的朋友在门外。
I saw my friend outside the door.
你把垃圾放在门外了吗？
Did you put the trash outside the door?
我听到门外有声音，你去看看是谁？
I heard a sound outside the door, can you go see who it is?
他站在门外等了很久，才被允许进去。
He waited outside the door for a long time before being allowed in.
请把鞋子脱在门外。
Please take off your shoes outside the door.
有个人一直站在门外，好像在等谁。
Someone has been standing outside the door, as if waiting for someone.
我把伞忘在门外了，等会儿出去拿。
I forgot my umbrella outside the door; I'll go get it later.
狗在门外叫得很厉害，是不是想进来？
The dog is barking loudly outside the door; does it want to come in?
我们把自行车停在门外就行了。
We can just park the bicycles outside the door.
我听到门外有声音。
I heard a sound outside the door.
This is a simple declarative sentence. 听到 (tīngdào) means 'to hear'.
他站在门外等我。
He stood outside the door waiting for me.
站 (zhàn) means 'to stand'. 等 (děng) means 'to wait'.
请把鞋子放在门外。
Please put your shoes outside the door.
请 (qǐng) means 'please'. 把 (bǎ) is a pre-transitive particle, indicating disposal of an object. 鞋子 (xiézi) means 'shoes'.
我看到一只猫坐在门外。
I saw a cat sitting outside the door.
看到 (kàndào) means 'to see'. 坐 (zuò) means 'to sit'. 猫 (māo) means 'cat'.
门外下雨了，快把衣服收进来。
It's raining outside, quickly bring the clothes in.
下雨 (xiàyǔ) means 'to rain'. 快 (kuài) means 'quickly'. 收 (shōu) means 'to collect/take in'.
他急忙跑出门外。
He rushed out the door.
急忙 (jímáng) means 'hastily/urgently'. 跑 (pǎo) means 'to run'.
我们把自行车停在门外。
We parked the bicycle outside the door.
停 (tíng) means 'to stop/park'. 自行车 (zìxíngchē) means 'bicycle'.
门外有人敲门。
Someone is knocking on the door outside.
有人 (yǒurén) means 'there is someone'. 敲门 (qiāomén) means 'to knock on the door'.
他站在门外，犹豫着是否要敲门。
He stood outside the door, hesitating whether to knock.
风把门外的那盆花吹倒了。
The wind blew down the pot of flowers outside the door.
我听到门外有动静，好像有人在说话。
I heard movement outside the door, as if someone was talking.
请把你的鞋放在门外，不要弄脏屋子。
Please leave your shoes outside the door; don't dirty the room.
孩子们在门外玩得很开心，笑声不断。
The children were having a great time playing outside the door, with constant laughter.
他焦急地在门外踱步，等待着消息。
He paced anxiously outside the door, waiting for news.
门外传来一阵急促的敲门声。
A series of urgent knocks came from outside the door.
雪下得很大，门外已经积了厚厚一层。
It was snowing heavily, and a thick layer had already accumulated outside the door.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
他站在门外。
He is standing outside the door.
门外有人敲门。
Someone is knocking on the door outside.
请在门外等我。
Please wait for me outside the door.
我听到门外有声音。
I heard a sound outside the door.
把垃圾放在门外。
Put the trash outside the door.
小狗在门外玩。
The puppy is playing outside the door.
门外下雨了。
It's raining outside the door.
他往门外看了一眼。
He glanced outside the door.
不要把陌生人留在门外。
Don't leave strangers outside the door.
门外汉也能学会。
Even a layman can learn it.
Often Confused With
When using '门外' as a location, you often use '在' before it: '在门外' (at/on/in outside the door).
The opposite of '门外' is '门里' (ménlǐ - inside the door), not just '里' (lǐ - inside) which is more general.
While '门外' is a general area, '门旁边' (mén pángbiān - beside the door) is a more specific location right next to the door.
Idioms & Expressions
"在门外"
To be outside the door (literally and figuratively, e.g., excluded)
他一直在门外等着你。
neutral"门外汉"
An amateur, an outsider (to a particular field)
我对编程是门外汉。
neutral"门外汉不懂行"
An amateur doesn't understand the trade (often used to dismiss a layman's opinion)
这些技术问题，门外汉不懂行。
neutral"站在门外"
Standing outside the door; to be excluded or not involved
我们应该加入讨论，而不是站在门外。
neutral"门外观察"
To observe from outside; to be an external observer
我们只能在门外观察情况。
neutral"门外偷听"
To eavesdrop from outside the door
她在门外偷听他们的谈话。
neutral"门外有狗"
There's a dog outside the door (literal, sometimes used humorously as a warning)
小心，门外有狗。
informal"被关在门外"
To be locked out; to be excluded
我忘记带钥匙，被关在门外了。
neutral"门外传来的声音"
Sound coming from outside the door
我听见门外传来的声音。
neutral"跑到门外"
To run outside the door
孩子们高兴地跑到门外玩耍。
neutralEasily Confused
Both refer to 'outside'.
外面 is a general term for any exterior space, not specifically related to a door. 门外 is specifically 'outside *the door*'.
我喜欢在外面吃饭。(Wǒ xǐhuān zài wàimiàn chīfàn.) I like to eat outside. 他在门外等我。(Tā zài ménwài děng wǒ.) He is waiting for me outside the door.
Both relate to being outdoors.
户外 specifically refers to outdoor activities or the general outdoors (e.g., 'outdoor sports'). 门外 is a location relative to a door.
我们周末喜欢做户外运动。(Wǒmen zhōumò xǐhuān zuò hùwài yùndòng.) We like to do outdoor sports on weekends. 快递员把包裹放在门外了。(Kuàidìyuán bǎ bāoguǒ fàng zài ménwài le.) The delivery person left the package outside the door.
Both involve 'door'.
门口 means 'doorway' or 'entrance', the immediate area around the door. 门外 means 'outside the door', implying a location further beyond the immediate entrance.
请在门口等我。(Qǐng zài ménkǒu děng wǒ.) Please wait for me at the doorway. 孩子在门外玩耍。(Háizi zài ménwài wánshuǎ.) The children are playing outside the door.
Can sometimes be used interchangeably in casual speech if the 'outside' is clearly understood to be 'outside the door'.
While sometimes interchangeable, 门外 is more precise. If you say '外面' and there are multiple 'outsides' (e.g., outside the house, outside the yard), '门外' clarifies it's specifically outside the door.
他在外面。(Tā zài wàimiàn.) He is outside. (Could be anywhere outside). 他在门外。(Tā zài ménwài.) He is outside the door.
Both refer to 'outside'.
屋外 means 'outside the house'. While often synonymous with 'outside the door' if it's a house door, it's a broader term for the exterior of a building, not specific to the door.
屋外很冷。(Wūwài hěn lěng.) It's very cold outside the house. 请把鞋放在门外。(Qǐng bǎ xié fàng zài ménwài.) Please put the shoes outside the door.
Word Family
Nouns
Tips
Basic Meaning
门外 (mén wài) literally means 'door outside'. It's a straightforward way to say something is outside the door or just beyond the entrance.
Contextual Use
You'll often hear this in everyday situations when referring to someone waiting outside a room, a building, or even a gate. It's about being on the exterior side of an entrance.
Position Word
外 (wài) is a common directional word meaning 'outside'. It's frequently combined with other nouns to indicate an external position. Think of it like saying 'out of the door'.
Opposite Term
The opposite of 门外 is 门里 (mén lǐ), meaning 'inside the door'. Knowing pairs like this can help you remember vocabulary more easily and understand spatial relationships.
Common Phrase
A very common phrase is 在门外 (zài mén wài), which means 'is outside the door' or 'at the door'. The '在' (zài) acts as a preposition indicating location.
Beyond Literal
While primarily literal, sometimes '门外' can imply being excluded or not invited in, though this is less common than its direct meaning. Focus on the physical location first.
No 'The' or 'A'
Remember that Chinese nouns don't typically use articles like 'the' or 'a'. So 门外 directly means 'outside the door' without needing an additional word for 'the'. This makes it simpler.
Use with Verbs
You can use it with verbs like 等 (děng - to wait), e.g., 在门外等你 (zài mén wài děng nǐ - wait for you outside the door). This shows how it fits into sentences.
Building on Basics
This word uses two very basic characters: 门 (mén - door) and 外 (wài - outside). If you know these, 门外 is easy to understand and remember.
Everyday Scenario
Imagine a friend knocking. You could say, '谁在门外？' (Shuí zài mén wài? - Who is outside the door?). This is a very practical question to ask.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'man' (mén) standing 'wide' (wài) with his arms out, blocking the 'door'. Man-wide = 门外.
Visual Association
Picture a door. Now, picture everything that is *not* inside that door. That's 'outside the door' (门外). Maybe a doormat, or a garden, or a sidewalk.
Word Web
Challenge
Think of three things you might find 门外 (mén wài) of your home right now. Say them out loud in Chinese if you can, using 门外.
Word Origin
Composed of '门' (mén, door) and '外' (wài, outside).
Original meaning: The literal meaning is 'door' + 'outside', directly translating to outside the door.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic branch.Cultural Context
The phrase '门外' is quite literal and doesn't carry significant deep cultural metaphors in everyday use. However, the concept of a 'door' (门) itself can sometimes symbolize a threshold or a boundary in broader Chinese culture, such as '家门' (jiāmén, family gate/door) representing one's household or family reputation. But for '门外' specifically, it largely retains its direct spatial meaning.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
When someone is waiting for you at your door.
- 有人在门外等你。
- 他在门外。
- 我在这里门外。
Describing where a package or delivery was left.
- 包裹在门外。
- 快递员把包裹放在了门外。
- 您的外卖在门外。
Indicating where an outdoor activity is happening in relation to a building.
- 孩子们在门外玩。
- 我们去门外散步吧。
- 外面很冷，不要在门外待太久。
When you hear a sound coming from outside the door.
- 我听到门外有声音。
- 门外怎么了？
- 好像有什么在门外。
Referring to someone who is not allowed inside or is currently outside.
- 他被关在门外了。
- 请在门外等一下。
- 他们都在门外。
Conversation Starters
"你听到门外有什么声音吗？ (Do you hear any sound outside the door?)"
"你的包裹在门外，你去拿了吗？ (Your package is outside the door, did you get it?)"
"我们出去门外走走吧。 (Let's go outside the door for a walk.)"
"你在门外等我一下好吗？ (Can you wait for me outside the door for a bit?)"
"今天天气很好，孩子们可以在门外玩。 (The weather is nice today, children can play outside the door.)"
Journal Prompts
描述一个你在门外遇到的有趣的人或事。(Describe an interesting person or event you encountered outside the door.)
你上次在门外等了多久？为什么？ (How long did you wait outside the door last time? Why?)
如果你的家门外有一扇神奇的门，你会希望它通向哪里？ (If there was a magical door outside your house, where would you want it to lead to?)
你在门外最喜欢做什么？为什么？ (What do you like to do most outside the door? Why?)
回想一个关于“门外”的记忆，无论是好的还是坏的。(Recall a memory about 'outside the door', good or bad.)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both mean 'outside,' 门外 specifically refers to 'outside the door.' 外面 is a more general term for 'outside' or 'outside a place.'
Examples:
她站在门外等你。(Tā zhàn zài ménwài děng nǐ.) - She is standing outside the door waiting for you.
外面很冷，多穿点衣服。(Wàimiàn hěn lěng, duō chuān diǎn yīfu.) - It's very cold outside, wear more clothes.
You can use 门外 to indicate a location that is literally 'outside the door.'
Examples:
我把自行车停在门外了。(Wǒ bǎ zìxíngchē tíng zài ménwài le.) - I parked my bicycle outside the door.
请把鞋子放在门外。(Qǐng bǎ xiézi fàng zài ménwài.) - Please put your shoes outside the door.
Not usually in a common everyday sense. 门外 is quite literal. If you want to say someone is 'out of the loop' or 'not an expert,' you'd use different phrases.
Example of a non-literal use (less common):
他对这个行业还处于门外汉。(Tā duì zhège hángyè hái chǔ yú ménwàihàn.) - He is still a novice (literally 'an outsider') in this industry. (Here, 门外 is part of the idiom 门外汉, meaning 'layman' or 'outsider' to a skill/field.)
Yes, it generally implies being in the immediate vicinity of the door. It's not usually used for 'far outside the building.'
Example:
快递员把包裹放在了门外。(Kuàidìyuán bǎ bāoguǒ fàng zài le ménwài.) - The delivery person left the package outside the door.
No, 门外 is a location word, so you don't use a measure word directly with it. You'd use measure words for the objects or people that are located 门外.
Example:
有一个人在门外等你。(Yǒu yī ge rén zài ménwài děng nǐ.) - There is one person waiting for you outside the door.
The pinyin is ménwài. 门 (mén) is second tone, and 外 (wài) is fourth tone.
Yes, it can refer to the door of a house, an office, a room, etc. As long as it's a physical door, you can use 门外.
Example:
老师在教室门外等我们。(Lǎoshī zài jiàoshì ménwài děng wǒmen.) - The teacher is waiting for us outside the classroom door.
You would ask: 谁在门外？(Shéi zài ménwài?)
Another way to ask 'Is there anyone outside the door?' is: 门外有人吗？ (Ménwài yǒu rén ma?)
The opposite would be 门里 (ménlǐ), meaning 'inside the door.'
Example:
她在门里，你在门外。(Tā zài ménlǐ, nǐ zài ménwài.) - She is inside the door, you are outside the door.
Yes, it's a very common and practical word to describe location in everyday Chinese. You'll hear and use it frequently.
Test Yourself 150 questions
她站在___，等你。
The sentence means 'She is standing outside the door, waiting for you.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
我的猫喜欢在___玩。
The sentence means 'My cat likes to play outside the door.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
请把鞋子放在___。
The sentence means 'Please put the shoes outside the door.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
有人在___敲门。
The sentence means 'Someone is knocking on the door outside.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
雨停了，我们出去___走走吧。
The sentence means 'The rain has stopped, let's go outside the door for a walk.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
小狗在___睡觉。
The sentence means 'The puppy is sleeping outside the door.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
Which of these means "outside the door"?
门 (mén) means door, and 外 (wài) means outside. Together, 门外 means outside the door.
If someone is standing 门外 (mén wài), where are they?
门外 (mén wài) specifically refers to the area outside a door.
Which sentence correctly uses 门外 (mén wài)?
The most common and natural way to use 门外 is with the verb 在 (zài) to indicate location.
门外 (mén wài) means "inside the door."
门外 (mén wài) means "outside the door." The character 外 (wài) means outside.
You can use 门外 (mén wài) to say someone is standing outside your house.
Yes, 门外 (mén wài) is perfect for describing someone's location right outside a door, which can be the door of a house.
The word 门 (mén) in 门外 (mén wài) means "window."
门 (mén) means "door." The word for window is 窗户 (chuāng hu).
The cat is outside the door.
He is waiting for you outside the door.
Please put the shoes outside the door.
Read this aloud:
我看到我的朋友在门外。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
外面很冷，不要在门外待太久。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
她把包放在门外。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence describing someone waiting at the door.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他在门外等我。
Imagine you see a cat outside the door. Write a sentence about it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
门外有一只猫。
You hear a sound outside your door. Write a simple sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
门外有声音。
小明在哪里？
Read this passage:
小明在门外。 他在等妈妈。
小明在哪里？
Passage states 小明在门外 (Xiao Ming is outside the door).
Passage states 小明在门外 (Xiao Ming is outside the door).
说话的人听到了什么？
Read this passage:
门外有人吗？ 我听到了声音。
说话的人听到了什么？
Passage states 我听到了声音 (I heard a sound).
Passage states 我听到了声音 (I heard a sound).
我的朋友在哪里？
Read this passage:
我看到我的朋友在门外。 他很高兴。
我的朋友在哪里？
Passage states 我看到我的朋友在门外 (I saw my friend outside the door).
Passage states 我看到我的朋友在门外 (I saw my friend outside the door).
This sentence means 'He is waiting for you outside the door.' The order is 'Subject + prepositional phrase (location) + verb + object.'
This sentence means 'My cat is meowing outside the door.' The structure is 'Subject + possessive + noun + prepositional phrase (location) + verb.'
This sentence means 'Please put the shoes outside the door.' '把' (bǎ) sentences often follow the structure: 'Subject + 把 + Object + Verb + 在 + Location.'
她站在___，好像在等什么人。(She stood ___ the door, as if waiting for someone.)
The context implies someone is waiting outside, so '门外' (outside the door) is the correct choice.
快递员把包裹放在了___。(The delivery person left the package ___ the door.)
Packages are typically left outside the door for delivery, making '门外' the appropriate word.
请不要在___大声喧哗。(Please don't make loud noises ___ the door.)
To avoid disturbing others, one should not make loud noises outside the door, so '门外' is correct.
小狗一直对着___叫。(The puppy kept barking at ___ the door.)
Dogs often bark at things they hear or see outside the door. '门外' fits this situation.
天气太冷了，我不想站在___。(It's too cold, I don't want to stand ___ the door.)
If it's cold, you wouldn't want to stand outside the door. '门外' is the logical choice.
他听到___有人说话的声音。(He heard someone talking ___ the door.)
Hearing voices from '门外' (outside the door) is a common scenario.
Choose the correct translation for "outside the door".
门 (mén) means 'door' and 外 (wài) means 'outside'.
Which sentence correctly uses "门外"?
The context requires 'outside the door'.
If someone is standing "门外", where are they?
门外 (mén wài) directly translates to outside the door.
The sentence "小狗在门外玩儿" (Xiǎo gǒu zài ménwài wánr) means 'The puppy is playing inside the door'.
门外 (mén wài) means 'outside the door', so the puppy is playing outside.
If you say "请在门外等一下" (Qǐng zài ménwài děng yīxià), you are asking someone to wait inside.
门外 (mén wài) means 'outside the door', so you are asking them to wait outside.
The phrase "门外" can describe the location of an object or a person.
Yes, it indicates a location relative to a door.
You are waiting for your friend outside the door of a cafe. Write a short message to tell them where you are.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在咖啡馆门外等你。
Describe a simple situation where you would be 'outside the door' of a common building.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的猫喜欢坐在家门外看风景。
Imagine you see a package outside your neighbor's door. Write a sentence to describe this.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我看到一个包裹在邻居门外。
小狗在哪里？
Read this passage:
小狗喜欢在门外玩耍。它常常在那里等主人回家。今天，小狗又在门外了。
小狗在哪里？
文章中明确提到小狗在门外玩耍和等待主人。
文章中明确提到小狗在门外玩耍和等待主人。
哥哥把什么放在了门外？
Read this passage:
妈妈说：“请把鞋子放在门外。” 哥哥把鞋子放在了门外。
哥哥把什么放在了门外？
妈妈要求把鞋子放在门外，哥哥也照做了。
妈妈要求把鞋子放在门外，哥哥也照做了。
送信的人在哪里？
Read this passage:
下雨了，一个送信的人站在我们家门外。他没有带伞。
送信的人在哪里？
文章中清楚地写明送信的人站在家门外。
文章中清楚地写明送信的人站在家门外。
This sentence means 'He is standing outside the door.' The typical Chinese sentence structure is Subject + Verb + (Prepositional Phrase).
This sentence translates to 'I heard someone outside the door.' The order follows Subject + Verb + Object + Prepositional Phrase.
This means 'Please put the shoes outside the door.' '把' (bǎ) sentences often follow the structure: Subject + 把 + Object + Verb + Complement/Location.
她把伞忘在了___。
The sentence means 'She forgot the umbrella outside the door.' '门外' (ménwài) means 'outside the door'.
有人___敲门，你听到了吗？
The sentence asks 'Did you hear someone knocking on the door from outside?' '门外' (ménwài) is the correct choice.
我们应该把垃圾放在___。
The sentence means 'We should put the trash outside the door.' '门外' (ménwài) correctly completes the sentence.
“门外”的意思是“inside the door”。
“门外” (ménwài) means 'outside the door', not 'inside the door'.
你可以用“门外”来描述一个物体的位置，比如“狗在门外”。
“狗在门外” (Gǒu zài ménwài) means 'The dog is outside the door', which is a correct usage of “门外”.
“门外”和“门口”的意思完全一样。
“门外” (ménwài) specifically means 'outside the door', while “门口” (ménkǒu) means 'doorway' or 'at the entrance', which can be inside or outside depending on context. They are not exactly the same.
Put the trash outside the door.
I heard a sound outside the door.
He is waiting for me outside the door.
Read this aloud:
请把鞋放在门外。
Focus: 门外 (mén wài)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你看到门外的那只猫了吗？
Focus: 门外 (mén wài)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
我们在门外等你。
Focus: 门外 (mén wài)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are waiting for a friend. Describe where you are and what you see outside the door. Use '门外' (ménwài).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在咖啡馆里等朋友，看到她正站在门外。 (Wǒ zài kāfēiguǎn lǐ děng péngyǒu, kàn dào tā zhèng zhàn zài ménwài.) I'm waiting for a friend in the cafe, and I see her standing outside the door.
You just arrived home and heard a strange noise. Describe where the noise came from using '门外' (ménwài).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我刚到家，听到门外有奇怪的声音。 (Wǒ gāng dào jiā, tīng dào ménwài yǒu qíguài de shēngyīn.) I just arrived home and heard a strange noise outside the door.
You are decorating for a party. Describe what you want to put outside the door to welcome guests. Use '门外' (ménwài).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我想在门外挂一些彩灯，欢迎客人的到来。 (Wǒ xiǎng zài ménwài guà yīxiē cǎidēng, huānyíng kèrén de dàolái.) I want to hang some colorful lights outside the door to welcome the guests.
小狗为什么喜欢坐在门外？
Read this passage:
小狗喜欢坐在门外等主人回家。每次主人快到家时，它都会兴奋地摇尾巴。邻居们都觉得这只小狗很可爱。
小狗为什么喜欢坐在门外？
文章中明确提到“小狗喜欢坐在门外等主人回家。” (The passage clearly states, 'The puppy likes to sit outside the door waiting for its owner to come home.')
文章中明确提到“小狗喜欢坐在门外等主人回家。” (The passage clearly states, 'The puppy likes to sit outside the door waiting for its owner to come home.')
作者昨天晚上听到了什么？
Read this passage:
昨天晚上，我听到门外有敲门声。我走过去看，但是外面什么都没有。这让我感到有点害怕。
作者昨天晚上听到了什么？
文章中写道“我听到门外有敲门声。” (The passage states, 'I heard a knocking sound outside the door.')
文章中写道“我听到门外有敲门声。” (The passage states, 'I heard a knocking sound outside the door.')
为什么这家商店的门外总是排着长队？
Read this passage:
这家商店的门外总是排着长队。大家都想买他们家好吃的面包。每天早上，新鲜面包的味道都会飘到很远。
为什么这家商店的门外总是排着长队？
文章中提到“大家都想买他们家好吃的面包。” (The passage mentions, 'Everyone wants to buy their delicious bread.')
文章中提到“大家都想买他们家好吃的面包。” (The passage mentions, 'Everyone wants to buy their delicious bread.')
她听到有人敲门，于是走到___查看。
The context implies someone is at the door, so '门外' (outside the door) fits best.
小狗一直在___等着主人回家。
Dogs often wait for their owners right outside the door, making '门外' the most natural choice.
会议结束后，记者们都聚集在会议室___，希望能采访到一些信息。
Reporters typically wait outside the meeting room to catch people as they exit, so '门外' is correct.
快递员把包裹放在了我的___，然后按了门铃。
Delivery personnel leave packages outside the door before ringing the doorbell. '门外' is the appropriate answer.
他因为迟到，被老师罚站在教室___。
Being sent outside the classroom door as punishment is a common scenario. '门外' fits the context.
每次回家，我都能看到我的猫咪坐在___等我。
Cats often wait for their owners by the door, making '门外' a fitting description of their waiting spot.
她把伞落在___了，现在正在回去拿。
The sentence indicates she left her umbrella somewhere and is going back to get it, implying it was left 'outside the door.'
快递员把包裹放在了___，然后按了门铃。
Delivery personnel typically leave packages 'outside the door' before ringing the doorbell.
因为天气太热，我们决定把盆栽搬到___去。
To escape the heat, potted plants are often moved 'outside the door' where it might be cooler or shadier.
如果有人敲门，你应该说“门外没人”。
If someone is knocking, it implies there is someone 'outside the door,' so saying '门外没人' (no one outside the door) would be incorrect.
“请把鞋子放在门外”意味着把鞋子放在门里面。
“门外” specifically means 'outside the door,' not inside.
当你想表达“在门外面”时，可以使用“门外”。
“门外” directly translates to 'outside the door' or 'at the door's exterior.'
Did you put the trash outside the door?
I heard a dog barking outside the door.
Please just leave the package outside the door, I'll be home soon.
Read this aloud:
门外好像有人在等你。
Focus: mén wài
You said:
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Read this aloud:
别忘了把伞放在门外，今天可能会下雨。
Focus: mén wài
You said:
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Read this aloud:
我们把鞋子都放在门外，这样屋子里会更干净。
Focus: mén wài
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are waiting for a friend. Describe what you see and hear outside the door while you wait. Use '门外' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在门外等着我的朋友。门外很安静，我听到鸟叫声，还看到一只小猫在玩耍。
You are a detective investigating a minor incident. Describe what evidence you might find just outside the door of a house. Use '门外' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在门外，我发现了一些脚印，还有一支被丢弃的笔。这些可能都是重要的证据。
Write a short paragraph about how the weather affects the area just outside your door. Use '门外' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
下雨的时候，门外会变得湿滑。晴天时，门外则充满阳光，适合散步。
根据短文，这个人为什么离开了？
Read this passage:
他站在门外，犹豫着要不要敲门。里面似乎很安静，没有一点声音。他深吸一口气，最后还是决定离开了。
根据短文，这个人为什么离开了？
短文提到他犹豫着要不要敲门，最后还是决定离开了。
短文提到他犹豫着要不要敲门，最后还是决定离开了。
为什么我把牛奶放在门外？
Read this passage:
每天早上，我都会把牛奶放在门外。这样，送奶工就不需要按门铃打扰我们休息了。这是一个非常方便的方法。
为什么我把牛奶放在门外？
短文明确说明，这样送奶工就不需要按门铃打扰他们休息了，所以是为了方便送奶工。
短文明确说明，这样送奶工就不需要按门铃打扰他们休息了，所以是为了方便送奶工。
小狗为什么坐在门外？
Read this passage:
小狗一直乖乖地坐在门外，等着主人回家。风吹过它的毛发，但它一动不动。它相信主人一定会回来的。
小狗为什么坐在门外？
短文指出小狗在门外等着主人回家。
短文指出小狗在门外等着主人回家。
This sentence means 'He is waiting for you outside the door.' The subject '他' comes first, followed by the verb '站' and the location '门外', then the action '等你'.
This sentence means 'Someone is knocking on the door outside, go open it.' The first clause describes the situation: '有人在门外敲门', and the second clause is a command: '你去开一下'.
This sentence means 'Please put the shoes outside the door.' The '把' structure is used here, followed by the object '鞋子', the verb '放', and the location '在门外'.
她听到一些奇怪的声音，便小心翼翼地走到___。
这句话描述了她听到声音后走到哪里去查看，'门外'符合语境。
会议室的___聚集了许多记者，等待采访。
记者通常会在门口等待采访，'门外'是正确的选择。
夜深了，他独自站在___，望着漆黑的夜空。
在夜深人静时，站在门外望夜空是一种常见的场景。
公司规定，快递员只能将包裹放在___，不能进入办公室。
为了安全和隐私，快递通常放在门外。
小猫咪常常喜欢蹲在___，观察来往的行人。
小动物喜欢在门口活动，观察周围环境。
请把你的鞋子放在___，保持室内清洁。
为了保持室内卫生，通常会把鞋子放在门外。
她把伞落在___了，现在外面下着大雨。
Context indicates the umbrella was left outside during heavy rain, making '门外' (outside the door) the correct choice.
保安发现一个可疑包裹被遗弃在公司___，立即上报了情况。
A suspicious package being '遗弃在公司门外' (abandoned outside the company door) is a common security scenario, fitting the context.
由于天气炎热，我们把几盆植物暂时移到了___，希望能让它们通风降温。
Moving plants to '门外' (outside the door) to air them out and cool them down due to hot weather is a logical action.
“门外”可以指一个地方的外部区域，不一定是紧邻着门。
While '门外' literally means 'outside the door,' in a broader sense, it can refer to the general exterior vicinity of a place, not strictly inches from the door itself.
如果我说“他站在门外等我”，这意味着他已经进入房间了。
“站在门外” means standing outside the door, indicating he has not yet entered the room.
在中文语境中，“门外”通常不用于形容抽象概念的范围。
“门外” is primarily used for physical locations. Abstract concepts would use different phrasing like '范围之外' (outside the scope) or '界限之外' (outside the boundary).
Did you put the trash outside the door?
I heard a strange sound outside the door.
The package was left outside the door.
Read this aloud:
请把鞋子脱在门外。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
快递员把我的包裹放在了门外。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
有个人站在门外很久了，好像在等人。
Focus: 门外 (ménwài)
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Imagine you are waiting for a friend who is late. Describe the scene and your feelings while waiting outside their door.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在朋友的门外等了很久，天色渐渐暗下来，我开始有点焦急。她怎么还没到？是不是出了什么事？我一遍又一遍地看手机，希望她能给我回个消息。
You are a detective observing a suspect's house. Describe what you see and hear from outside their door.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在嫌疑人家的门外潜伏了几个小时，屋子里没有任何动静，一片寂静。透过窗帘的缝隙，我隐约看到里面亮着灯，但没有人影。看来，他可能不在家，或者在屋内小心翼翼地躲避着什么。
Write a short paragraph about a memorable incident that happened right outside your door.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我永远记得去年冬天，我家门外发生了一件有趣的事情。一个邻居的小孩在雪地里堆雪人，不小心把雪球扔进了我的院子。他很害怕，站在门外不敢过来捡。我出去帮忙，结果我们一起玩了起来，度过了一个愉快的下午。
根据这段文字，这个人为什么在门外徘徊？
Read this passage:
他在门外徘徊了很久，手里紧紧攥着那封信，犹豫着是否要按响门铃。这封信关系着他未来的命运，可他又害怕面对里面的那个人。最终，他深吸一口气，还是伸出手去……
根据这段文字，这个人为什么在门外徘徊？
文章中明确提到“犹豫着是否要按响门铃”和“害怕面对里面的那个人”，这都表明他在犹豫是否要进去面对某件事。
文章中明确提到“犹豫着是否要按响门铃”和“害怕面对里面的那个人”，这都表明他在犹豫是否要进去面对某件事。
根据这段文字，作者在门外看到了什么？
Read this passage:
清晨，我听见门外传来一阵吵闹声。我打开门一看，原来是两只流浪猫在为争夺食物而打架。它们互相咆哮着，毛发都竖了起来，场面一度非常混乱。
根据这段文字，作者在门外看到了什么？
文章中直接说明“原来是两只流浪猫在为争夺食物而打架”。
文章中直接说明“原来是两只流浪猫在为争夺食物而打架”。
作者在门外听到了什么？
Read this passage:
自从搬到这间公寓后，我常常听到门外传来奇怪的脚步声。有时是轻柔的，有时又是沉重的，让我感到一丝不安。我曾尝试打开门查看，但每次都一无所获。
作者在门外听到了什么？
文章中明确提到“我常常听到门外传来奇怪的脚步声”。
文章中明确提到“我常常听到门外传来奇怪的脚步声”。
This sentence describes someone waiting outside the door. The structure '站 在 [place]' means 'to stand at [place]'.
This is a polite request to place shoes outside the door. '把' construction is used for direct objects, and '放 在 [place]' means 'to put at [place]'.
This question asks if someone heard any sound outside the door. '听到' means 'to hear' and '有 什么 声音' means 'is there any sound'.
她听到有人敲门，于是走到___看是谁。
Context indicates someone is knocking, so she went 'outside the door' to see. 门外 (ménwài) means outside the door. 门里 (ménlǐ) means inside the door, 屋内 (wūnèi) means inside the house, 门边 (ménbiān) means by the door.
请把快递放在___，我稍后出来拿。
The speaker wants the delivery left 'outside the door' for later collection. 门外 (ménwài) is the correct term. 家里 (jiālǐ) means inside the home, 门口 (ménkǒu) means doorway (can be either inside or outside, but less specific than 门外 for placing an item), 屋里 (wūlǐ) means inside the room.
小狗一直在___徘徊，似乎在等主人回家。
The dog is waiting for its owner, so it would be pacing 'outside the door'. 门外 (ménwài) is the appropriate choice. 屋里 (wūlǐ) means inside the room, 门内 (ménnèi) means inside the door, 床上 (chuángshàng) means on the bed.
___的雪已经堆得很高了，出门要小心。
The snow piling up would be 'outside the door', making it difficult to go out. 门外 (ménwài) is correct. 屋内 (wūnèi) means inside the room, 家里 (jiālǐ) means inside the home, 窗外 (chuāngwài) means outside the window, which is also plausible but '出门 (chūmén - go out)' directly relates to 门 (mén - door).
她习惯每天早上在___散步，呼吸新鲜空气。
To take a walk and breathe fresh air, one would go 'outside the door'. 门外 (ménwài) fits the context. 房间 (fángjiān) means room, 屋里 (wūlǐ) means inside the room, 床上 (chuángshàng) means on the bed.
比赛结束后，粉丝们在体育馆___热情地等待着选手。
Fans waiting for players after a game would gather 'outside the door' of the stadium. 门外 (ménwài) is correct. 场内 (chǎngnèi) means inside the venue, 里面 (lǐmiàn) means inside, 观众席 (guānzhòngxí) means spectator seats.
她听到门外有争吵声，于是小心翼翼地走到猫眼处看了一眼。这里的“门外”指的是哪里？
“门外”通常指与门直接相邻的外部区域，强调的是地理上的紧密连接。
尽管外面风雨交加，他仍旧站在门外，不肯离去。这句话中，“门外”表达了什么含义？
在此语境中，“门外”不仅指物理位置，更深层地暗示了人物内心的坚定不移和期盼，即使面对困难也未曾放弃。
长期以来，她感觉自己仿佛站在这个圈子的门外，始终无法真正融入进去。这里的“门外”比喻了什么？
将“门外”用于比喻，意指无法进入某个群体、社群或特定领域，暗示了一种被排斥或未能被接纳的社会关系状态。
“门外汉”这个词语，其“门外”的含义与“请把垃圾放在门外”中的“门外”含义完全相同。
“请把垃圾放在门外”中的“门外”指物理上的外部区域，而“门外汉”中的“门外”则是比喻对某个领域不熟悉或不懂行的人，两者含义有本质区别。
如果一个人说：“我被拒之门外了”，他表达的是自己没有被允许进入某个地方或某个团体。
“拒之门外”是一个固定短语，字面意思是被拒绝在门外，引申为被拒绝进入或不被接纳。
在文学作品中，描绘“门外”的场景，有时可以暗示一种隔离感或期待感。
文学中，“门外”可以象征物理或心理上的界限，营造出神秘、等待、渴望进入或被阻隔的情感氛围，具有丰富的象征意义。
Listen for the description of a severe snowstorm and being trapped outside.
Listen for clues about someone trying to gain entry or understanding but failing.
Listen for words describing the setting at night and an inanimate object outside a door.
Read this aloud:
即便你是门外汉，也应该对此行业的基本运作有所了解。
Focus: 门外汉 (mén wài hàn)
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Read this aloud:
他站在门外，感受着初春的料峭寒意，心中却燃起了对未来的无限憧憬。
Focus: 料峭寒意 (liào qiào hán yì)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
那声清脆的敲门声打破了室内的沉寂，门外似乎站着一位不速之客。
Focus: 不速之客 (bù sù zhī kè)
You said:
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/ 150 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
门外 (ménwài) is a straightforward way to say 'outside the door' in Chinese.
- 门外 means 'outside the door.'
- It's a very common and practical phrase.
- Use it for spaces just beyond an entrance.
Basic Meaning
门外 (mén wài) literally means 'door outside'. It's a straightforward way to say something is outside the door or just beyond the entrance.
Contextual Use
You'll often hear this in everyday situations when referring to someone waiting outside a room, a building, or even a gate. It's about being on the exterior side of an entrance.
Position Word
外 (wài) is a common directional word meaning 'outside'. It's frequently combined with other nouns to indicate an external position. Think of it like saying 'out of the door'.
Opposite Term
The opposite of 门外 is 门里 (mén lǐ), meaning 'inside the door'. Knowing pairs like this can help you remember vocabulary more easily and understand spatial relationships.
