outside/inside

[david-us.livejournal.com]

How do Russians express the concept of outside & inside? Or, the idea of being indoors (in a building) or outdoors (standing in your yard)?

How would a Russian say:
"Why are you inside? All you children should go outside and play."

-and-

"It's cold out outside! We should go inside where it's warmer."

I have always used "на дворе" for outside/outdoors. But I usually get strange looks when I use it.

Also, is there a different way to say this when direction (instead of location) is implied.

For instance: "Where are you going?" ... "I'm going outside."

Thanks!

David Emerling
Memphis, TN

Comments

[krl-pgh.livejournal.com]

Yes, I would also say "на улице" (outside) vs. "внутри" (inside).

Another way to point out "being inside" in a slightly negative way is to say "в четырех стенах" (literally, "within four walls"): "Why are you inside? All you children should go outside and play." - "Что сидишь в четырех стенах? Все дети играют (должны играть) на улице."

[acuzena.livejournal.com]

I'd say "в четырех стенах" is a phraseology (not a common expression) and means "being oneself locked up inside".