uchi-soto

is a distinction whereby 'uchi' is family, clan or group and 'soto' is all that which is outside of the uchi, making 'soto' or 'outside' a non-concept, a negative idea, referring to that which is left-over after the positive has been identified.

Uchi in fact refers to the family, clan or group: soto means outside. Thus soto is all that which is outside of the uchi. As such, it is a negative idea or, in Morley's words, 'a non-concept' (Morley, 1986, p. 123). In effect, it refers to that which is left-over after the positive has been identified. If it is possible to transfer the notion to space and interpret this in Western terms, then that which is beyond the domain of the uchi comprises space which is both 'other private' plus 'public' and together conferred with lesser status.

uchi soto, n.All

uchi soto