external commitments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "external commitments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to obligations or responsibilities that are outside of a particular context or organization, often in discussions about time management or priorities. Example: "Due to my external commitments, I won't be able to attend the meeting this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This study differs from those pertaining to the migration literature mainly because the preferences over destinations are not influenced by external commitments (for example job or family) and do not necessarily imply that the migration plan is feasible.

IZA Journal of Migration

While pain levels on a particular day can influence the balance of activities on that day (the notion of good days and bad days), routine can also be influenced by various other factors, including external commitments.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He said that there are two types of commitment: External commitment, or contractual compliance.

The Economist

As needed, especially in the initial stages of implementation, support sustained external commitment.

Unicef

Its exceptional growth rate and positive balance of trade has made it possible to service external debt commitments.

The Guardian - Opinion

Changing political priorities and the global financial crisis have also jeopardized external financial commitments to HIV treatment and care [ 7].

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

Another limitation is the restriction of antecedents of export performance to external environment and firm-specific internal factors like international commitment and experience.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Whether through external pressure, charity commitments or basic matters of technicality, Rory McIlroy's Irish Open trouble will linger for another year as he missed the cut.

The Guardian - Sport

Here's a typical scenario that arises from not realizing this important truth: First, you gradually or suddenly become aware that you have some form of imbalance in the external activities or commitments of your life.

Huffington Post

We need a mechanism for independent and external oversight, a commitment to decreasing the number of detained and incarcerated youths, and sustained fiscal support for alternative programs.

The New York Times

Internal commitment, said Argyris, is closely allied with empowerment.Argyris argued that the problem with many corporate programmes designed to encourage empowerment was that they created more external than internal commitment.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing time management, clearly specify which "external commitments" are impacting your schedule to provide context and allow for better planning.

Common error

Avoid simply stating you have "external commitments" without providing details. This lacks clarity. Instead, briefly outline the nature of those commitments to offer better understanding to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "external commitments" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. As seen in Ludwig AI, it refers to duties and responsibilities situated outside a central activity or role, for instance, work or study.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "external commitments" is grammatically sound and usable in written English to denote obligations or responsibilities external to a primary area of focus. Ludwig AI confirms this through various examples from diverse sources. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key; specifying the nature of the commitments enhances understanding. Alternatives such as "outside obligations" or "external obligations" can be employed for variety. Understanding the difference between internal and external commitments is crucial for effective communication and time management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outside obligations

Focuses on the obligatory nature of external responsibilities.

external obligations

Direct synonym, emphasizing external responsibilities.

outside responsibilities

Highlights the responsibilities falling outside a primary area.

external duties

Implies formal or assigned external tasks.

extracurricular activities

Specifically refers to activities outside of a standard curriculum.

non-work obligations

Specifies obligations that are distinct from work.

personal engagements

Highlights commitments of a personal nature.

civic responsibilities

Focuses on duties related to citizenship.

social obligations

Emphasizes commitments within a social context.

ancillary duties

Suggests supporting or secondary responsibilities.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "external commitments" in a sentence?

You can replace "external commitments" with phrases like "outside obligations", "external obligations", or "outside responsibilities" depending on the context.

What are some examples of "external commitments"?

"External commitments" can include family responsibilities, community service, volunteer work, or other obligations outside of one's primary work or study.

When is it appropriate to use the term "external commitments"?

Use "external commitments" when referring to obligations that exist outside of a specific, defined context, such as work or school, and that may impact one's time or availability.

What's the difference between "external commitments" and "internal commitments"?

"External commitments" refer to obligations to outside entities, while "internal commitments" are obligations made within a specific group or to oneself.