IdiomThe AbsurdSpanish

fuera de sí

Meaning: to be in a state of extreme emotion, either elation or distress, such that one loses composure.

Literally: Outside of oneself

Example: “Estaba fuera de sí cuando vio el coche rayado.” — He was beside himself when he saw the scratched car.

English equivalent: Beside oneself

Equivalents in other languages

Origin: Literally "outside oneself": someone carried away by rage, joy or shock no longer seems to be inside their own skin. The phrase is ordinary Spanish, matched by English "beside oneself," and has no particular story behind it.

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