Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

We need to think outside of box if we are to come up with something really new.

What does "think outside of box" mean? Shall I add an "a" in front of "box"?

Thanks

[Suzanne]

Hello, Jason,

To "think outside the box" is a phrase that means to look at a situation or problem or idea in a new way. It means to be creative, and to try to approach things in a completely different manner.

You don't add an "a" but you do add "the."

Examples:
"If we are going to solve this economic crisis, we need to think outside the box."
"When Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, he had to really think outside the box."
"Bill Gates and Paul Allen were thinking outside the box when they came up with the idea that led to Microsoft."

Hope this helps!

[jasonlulu_2000]

thanks a lot.