inwardly <-> outwardly

ChatGPT 3.5

For a few moments, I just sat there inwardly watching myself try to fix the awakward silence.
=> (speaking tone)  "Yep, for a bit there, I just sat, kind of watching myself trying to break that awkward silence."

inwardly: 마음속으로, 내심, 은밀히

<-> 겉으로는, 표면상으로 

 

The adverb "inwardly" refers to something happening or existing within one's mind or inner self. It is often used to describe emotions, thoughts, or reactions that are not outwardly expressed but are experienced internally. Here are a couple of examples to illustrate its usage:

1. Emotional State:
   • Example: Despite the criticism, she remained composed outwardly, but inwardly, she felt a mix of disappointment and frustration.
2. Thoughts or Reflections:
   • Example: As the speaker addressed the audience, he seemed calm and collected, but inwardly, he was nervous about the upcoming challenges.

In both examples, "inwardly" highlights what is happening internally, beneath the surface or behind the outward appearance.

 

Certainly! Let's break down the meaning of the sentence:

"For a few moments, I just sat there inwardly watching myself try to fix the awkward silence."

1. "For a few moments":
   • This phrase establishes a specific duration of time, indicating that the described action occurred within a short period.
2. "I just sat there":
   • The speaker remained seated, suggesting a passive or contemplative state.
3. "inwardly watching myself":
   • "Inwardly" indicates that the observation or awareness is internal, happening within the speaker's thoughts or emotions.
   • "Watching myself" implies a self-awareness, as if the speaker is observing their own actions or reactions.
4. "try to fix the awkward silence":
   • The speaker is making an effort to alleviate or resolve a moment of awkward silence. This implies that there was a lack of conversation or uncomfortable quietness, and the speaker is attempting to address or improve the situation.

Putting it all together, the sentence describes a moment where the speaker, during a few moments of awkward silence, sat quietly but was internally aware and observant of their own attempts to remedy the uncomfortable situation.