In and out

SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. — When it comes to swimming in the ocean, the words in and out mean the same thing.1
From the shore, looking toward the water: "Do you want to go in?" That means into the water.
From the water, looking toward the shore: "Do you want to go in?" That means into shore.
From the shore, looking toward the water: "Do you want to go out?" That means out into the water.
From the water, looking toward the shore: "Do you want to go out?" That means out of the water.
From the shore, looking nowhere in particular: "Do you want to go out?" That means a date.

1Steven Wright contends that yes and no mean the same thing. For example: "Yes, it is not raining out." "No, it is not raining out."

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