外出

がいしゅつ

outing, going out

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"外出" (wàichū) means "to go out" or "going outside," often used to describe leaving one's home or workplace temporarily. It is a common term in daily conversation and formal contexts alike.

Common Contexts

People use "外出" when talking about leaving for errands, meetings, or social activities. It often implies a temporary absence rather than permanent relocation.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

Using "外出" emphasizes the act of leaving a familiar indoor space. It is more formal than simply saying "出去" (go out) and is often used in written notices or polite speech.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "外出" with "出去"; the latter is more general and can mean simply "go out" without the nuance of leaving for a purpose or temporarily. "外出" often implies a planned or purposeful outing.

Example Sentences

I have to go out for a meeting this afternoon.

Please remember to bring your ID when you go out.

He has been going out less recently because he is sick.