Explanation of the Word "External"
Part of Speech: Adjective
Usage Instructions:
Use "external" when you want to describe something that is not internal or inside something else.
It’s often used in contexts such as discussions about countries, appearances, or physical features.
Examples:
"The external walls of the building are painted blue."
(Here, "external" describes the walls that are on the outside of the building.)
"External commerce refers to trade between different countries."
(In this case, "external" describes trade that happens between nations, not within one country.)
With a Focus on Appearance:
"She maintained an external composure even when she was nervous."
(This shows that her outward appearance was calm, even though she might have felt differently inside.)
Advanced Usage:
In Technical Contexts: "External factors" can influence the outcome of a study or project, meaning factors that come from outside the study itself.
In Medical Contexts: "External medicine" may refer to treatments applied to the surface of the body rather than internal medicine that deals with internal body functions.
Word Variants:
Noun Form: "Externality" (refers to an external condition or factor, often used in economics).
Adverb Form: "Externally" (used to describe how something is done from the outside).
Different Meanings:
Physical Context: Referring to the outer part of something (e.g., external features of a product).
Social Context: Involving factors or influences that come from outside a group or system (e.g., external pressures from society).
Synonyms:
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
Idiom: "Put on a brave face" - This means to appear calm and composed (external composure) even in difficult situations.
Phrasal Verb: "Look out" - This can mean to be aware of what is happening outside or to be cautious of external dangers.
Summary:
"External" is a versatile word that describes anything related to the outside or outward aspects of something. It is used in various contexts, including physical descriptions, trade, and social dynamics.