Externally: meaning, definitions and examples

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externally

 

[ɪkˈstɜːrnəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

In a manner that is external or outside; on or from the outside.

Synonyms

outside, outwardly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
externally

This is used when referring to things on the outside or surface of something, typically in a technical or formal context.

  • The device appeared undamaged externally.
  • Externally, the house looked fine, but inside it was a mess.
outside

Use this in everyday language to describe something that is physically located on or beyond the outer surface or border of something.

  • It's raining outside.
  • The kids are playing outside.
outwardly

This word is often used to describe how something seems based on appearance, which might be different from the internal reality. It can have a slightly more nuanced or formal tone.

  • Outwardly, he seemed confident, but inside he was very nervous.
  • The car was outwardly impressive, but it had many mechanical issues.

Examples of usage

  • He was externally calm, but internally anxious.
  • The device is designed to be mounted externally on the wall.
  • She smiled externally, but internally she was crying.
Context #2 | Adverb

used in a sentence

In a way that is not connected with the core or essence of something.

Synonyms

on the surface, superficially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
externally

Utilized when referring to the outer appearance or aspects of something that can be seen or experienced from the outside.

  • Externally, the building appeared modern and sleek.
  • Externally, he seemed calm, but inside he was very anxious.
superficially

Indicates a surface-level understanding or assessment of something, often carrying a negative connotation of being shallow or not thorough.

  • She only looked at the problem superficially, missing the underlying issues.
  • Superficially, the argument made sense, but it fell apart under scrutiny.
on the surface

Used to describe how something appears at first glance, often implying that there might be more complexity underneath.

  • On the surface, the project seemed simple, but it required a lot of detailed planning.
  • On the surface, their relationship looked perfect.

Examples of usage

  • Externally, the company seemed successful, but internally it was struggling.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'externalis', which means 'of or belonging to the outside'.
  • It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe things that are outer or outside.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the word 'externus', emphasizing its connection to all things external.

Psychology

  • In psychology, external factors can influence behavior, such as family, culture, and society.
  • Researchers often study how external stimuli impact mental health outcomes.
  • The term is also used in discussions about internal versus external locus of control, which impacts a person’s outlook on life.

Science

  • In biology, external factors like temperature and weather can affect the survival of organisms.
  • External forces in physics refer to influences from outside a system, such as gravity or friction.
  • Astronomy often discusses external influences on planetary systems from other celestial bodies.

Popular Culture

  • In media, external conflict is a common theme where characters face challenges from outside their environment.
  • Movies often explore external struggles that lead characters to growth, highlighting their journey from inside to outside.
  • The concept of external beauty versus internal beauty is a recurring topic in literature and film.

Technology

  • External devices refer to hardware that connects to a computer, such as printers or speakers.
  • In software, external APIs allow different programs to communicate and share information.
  • Cybersecurity focuses on protecting networks from external threats like hackers and malware.

Translations

Translations of the word "externally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 externamente

🇮🇳 बाहरी रूप से

🇩🇪 äußerlich

🇮🇩 secara eksternal

🇺🇦 зовні

🇵🇱 zewnętrznie

🇯🇵 外部的に

🇫🇷 extérieurement

🇪🇸 externamente

🇹🇷 dışarıdan

🇰🇷 외부적으로

🇸🇦 خارجيًا

🇨🇿 externě

🇸🇰 externe

🇨🇳 外部地

🇸🇮 zunanje

🇮🇸 utan frá

🇰🇿 сырттай

🇬🇪 გარე

🇦🇿 xaricdən

🇲🇽 externamente

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,610 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.