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External: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：located outside (external)
external
/ɪkˈstɜːrnl/
adj.
Located or coming from the outside of something, not inside.
located outside
➕
/ləʊˈkeɪtɪd ˈaʊtsaɪd/
adj.
Refers to something that is situated or originates from the exterior of an object or entity, not within it.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'externus', meaning 'outside' or 'outward'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'exit' for external, like exiting to the outside.
📖 Example
My phone is waterproof, so a little rain won't damage its external shell.
My phone is waterproof, so a little rain won't damage its external shell.
🔗 Collocations
external factors – elements or influences from the outside environment
external environment – the surrounding conditions outside a system or organism
external appearance – the outer look or surface aspect of something
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
externally (adv.) – in an external manner; from the outside
externality (n.) – an external factor or aspect; something outside
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'externus', used in English since the 15th century, commonly in legal and medical contexts to denote outer aspects.
Meaning 2：apparent on the surface (external)
external
/ɪkˈstɜːrnl/
adj.
Relating to or existing on the surface; not deep or coming from within.
apparent on the surface
➕
/əˈpærənt ɒn ðə ˈsɜːfɪs/
adj.
Describes something that relates to or exists on the surface, often not reflecting deeper or internal qualities.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She always seems cheerful, but we don't know if that's just her external reaction to hide her true feelings.
She always seems cheerful, but we don't know if that's just her external reaction to hide her true feelings.
🔗 Collocations
external behavior – observable actions or conduct that appear on the surface
external signs – outward indications or symptoms that are visible
external calmness – a surface appearance of peace or tranquility
🔄 Synonyms
superficial (adj.) – existing or occurring on the surface; not deep
outward (adj.) – relating to the external appearance or manifestation
surface (adj.) – pertaining to the outer layer or visible aspect
🚫 Antonyms
internal (adj.) – coming from within; inherent or deep-seated
deep-seated (adj.) – firmly established and not superficial; originating from within
🌱 Derivatives
externality (n.) – an external aspect or quality; something that is outward
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