external

[ik-stur-nl] / ɪkˈstɜr nl /

ADJECTIVE

outside, extrinsic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

extraneous foreign

STRONG

alien exterior independent out over peripheral surface

WEAK

apparent outer outermost outmost outward superficial visible

Antonyms

STRONGEST

national native relevant

STRONG

central interior middle

WEAK

inside internal intrinsic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Attempting to adjust your gold exposure in response to external factors is most likely a fool’s errand.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

The school still receives a budget for them, which can be used to cover the cost of external support.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Its chief financial officer, external auditor and several board members resigned.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

It must come from external sources, particularly consumers and businesses that are willing to pay for genuine AI-driven productivity improvements.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

For a prince should have two fears: one internal, concerning his subjects; the other external, concerning foreign powers.

From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli

Vocabulary lists containing external

List 9

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Narrative Writing, List 3

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Lesson 1

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