outside voice

American  

[aut-sahyd vois] / ˈaʊtˌsaɪd ˌvɔɪs /

noun

1. a strong, elevated voice, considered appropriate when speaking outdoors in order to be heard above a crowd or other background sounds or noises (opposed to inside voice).

   She had to use her outside voice to be heard over the applauding concertgoers.

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Etymology

Origin of outside voice

First recorded in 2005–10

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

outside voice

In order to put a hold on this deal as soon as possible, you need an outside voice to provide perspective — a family therapist, an adviser or a mediator.

From MarketWatch ● Jan. 21, 2026

His own producers agreed to fund a movie that feels very much his own, which is wonderful even given a few fumbles that could have used an outside voice piping up.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 18, 2024

“Derek’s not far away in Rockford, but still an outside perspective, and outside voice at the top of that pyramid.”

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 7, 2021

He needs to step down as general manager and either appoint his son or hire an outside voice that doesn’t share his DNA.

From The Guardian ● Dec. 30, 2019

Slowly the din of the outside voice softened and receded.

From "I, Robot" by Isaac Asimov

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