exterior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exterior" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the outer surface or structure of something, often in contexts related to architecture, design, or physical appearance. Example: "The exterior of the building was designed to blend in with the natural surroundings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Arts

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At first, officers saw only a mattress on the floor and a refrigerator in an exterior room.

The Guardian

"But what about what's above it?" Wise and others spent years drawing up their submission to the IDA, collecting reams of light readings and stitching together an alliance of local councils, parks' bodies and community groups to produce an exterior lighting master plan that influences the construction of new developments in the area.

The Guardian

And if all these families are not catastrophic enough with you, if you still need further levels of interior and exterior violence to get a handle on your own situation, there is always Lionel Shriver's We Need to Talk About Kevin.

The Guardian - Books

While some notes published in his lifetime mention things that did not need to be acted upon – like using a Rembrandt as an ironing board – the notes that became available posthumously include the following: "take one cubic centimetre of tobacco smoke and paint the exterior and the interior surfaces a waterproof colour"; "trace a straight line on Rodin's The Kiss as seen from a sight".

The Guardian - Arts

Malkovich eyed my misery (much as he did the whole Nessun Dorma brouhaha) with laconic detachment, but underneath that seen-it-all exterior he could tell a fellow actor was suffering and he had decided to help.

The Guardian

It could also be said of the exterior of, to give it its official name, the Leadenhall building.

The Guardian - Arts

For the exterior is, much of the time, really beautiful.

The Guardian - Arts

The exterior is in need of a paint job but inside you'll find a cinema packed with classic art deco designs and restored fittings.

The Guardian - Film

More than any other genre, horror acts as a barometer on exterior fears.

The Guardian - Film

Chunks of the exterior wall at Vinny's Bakery on Lewis Street – the site of the shooting – have been removed for ballistics.

The Guardian

Dai has met Considine only briefly and marvels at how he has "managed to convey the sentiments and instinctive personality I believe I have, the caring exterior.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, "exterior" can provide a more precise and professional tone compared to simply using "outside".

Common error

Avoid using "exterior" and "external" interchangeably. While similar, "exterior" often refers to a physical surface or structure, while "external" can refer more broadly to anything that is outside or not intrinsic. For instance, say "exterior wall" instead of "external wall."

Linguistic Context

The word "exterior" functions primarily as a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it refers to the outer part or surface of something. As an adjective, it describes something related to the outside. Ludwig AI validates its correct and varied usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

20%

Arts

15%

Less common in

Film

10%

Science

5%

Unknown/unmatched sources

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "exterior" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and an adjective, commonly used to describe the outer aspects of physical objects and, less frequently, foreign affairs. According to Ludwig, the term is used correctly in a variety of contexts. Its usage spans from neutral news reports to more formal architectural or design discussions. While "exterior" is frequently encountered, remember to distinguish its meaning from similar terms like "external". The primary sources like The Guardian and The Economist, further demonstrate its widespread application in professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outer surface

Focuses specifically on the outermost layer or covering of an object.

outside

A general term referring to the external part or area.

external appearance

Emphasizes the visible aspect of something.

outer shell

Implies a protective or structural outer layer.

facade

Refers to the front or outward appearance, often implying a superficial or deceptive quality.

surface

A broad term for the outermost boundary of an object.

outward form

Highlights the shape and structure that is visible.

outer limits

Refers to the boundaries or edges of something.

international relations

Specifically refers to the relationships between countries, relating to the "foreign lands" definition of "exterior".

foreign affairs

Refers to the political and economic relationships between countries.

FAQs

How do I use "exterior" in a sentence?

Use "exterior" to describe the outside part of something, like "The "exterior design" of the house was modern" or to refer to foreign affairs.

What's the difference between "exterior" and "external"?

"Exterior" typically refers to the outer surface or structure, while "external" is a broader term for anything outside. For example, "exterior wall" is correct, but "external factors" is more appropriate than "exterior factors".

Can "exterior" refer to a person's personality?

Yes, "exterior" can describe a person's outward appearance or behavior, implying that it may conceal their true feelings or character. For instance, "Beneath his tough "exterior", he was kind."

What are some synonyms for "exterior" when talking about a building?

When referring to a building, you can use synonyms like "facade", "outer surface", or "outside", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.