θɪŋk aʊtˈsaɪd ðə bɒks
Business
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- Thinking beyond a box's boundaries
What does "think outside the box" mean?
- To think creatively and unconventionally
- To approach problems in new ways
Examples
- We need to think outside the box on this one.
- She's known for thinking outside the box.
- Try to think outside the box for a solution.
Origin
From the 'nine dots' puzzle where the solution requires drawing outside the box. Popularized in 1970s-80s business culture.
How to use it
Very common but sometimes considered a business cliché. Still useful for encouraging creativity.
Similar expressions
be creative
think unconventionally
innovate
be original
Opposites
think conventionally
follow the rules
be traditional
Related idioms
- on the same page
In agreement or having the same understanding
- cut to the chase
To get to the point without wasting time
- hit the ground running
To start a new job or activity with immediate effectiveness
- in the loop
Included in the flow of information
- the bottom line
The most important point or factor
- get up to speed
To become fully informed about a situation
Use it in a practice answer
Try "think outside the box" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.