for external use only

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for external use only" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a product, such as a medication or cosmetic, should not be ingested or used internally. Example: "This cream is labeled for external use only, so please do not apply it to broken skin or take it orally."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It's for external use only.

The Guardian

It is of course for external use only.

The New York Times

"Canesten cream is for external use only," it said, "and should not be put in the mouth or swallowed.

The Guardian - Opinion

There could be no better way to learn a local custom, especially from Mr. Rossetto, who joked that on Pantelleria, where wine is so vital, "water is for external use only".

The New York Times - Food

Although they are usually found on shelves of cooking oil, not massage oil, bottles of pure mustard oil sold in the United States must bear a warning: "For external use only".

The New York Times - Food

Note: This is for external use only.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"I decided to select the one that said 'for external use only,' figuring that was the one with the most horsepower," he recalled.

The New York Times - Food

This is the first time that this has been done for an external galaxy using only optical proper motion techniques, and shows the power of upcoming time-domain surveys such as LSST.

Columbia University

For promotional use only.

Los Angeles Times

For facial use only.

WikiHow

For topical use only.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "for external use only" on product labels, ensure it is prominently displayed and easily readable to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

Common error

Avoid assuming "for external use only" means it's safe for all external body parts. Some products are specifically not suitable for eyes, mucous membranes, or broken skin, despite being for external application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for external use only" primarily functions as a restrictive modifier. It provides a specific limitation or condition on how a product or substance should be used, indicating it's intended solely for application to the exterior of the body. This aligns with Ludwig AI stating that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for external use only" is a common and grammatically correct instruction, primarily used to warn against internal consumption or application of a product. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It appears frequently in Wiki articles, News & Media, and Science-related contexts, indicating its importance in health, safety, and product usage guidelines. When using the phrase, ensure it is clearly visible and easy to understand. Consider alternatives like "topical application only" for specific scenarios, and always check for additional warnings related to specific body parts or skin conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

topical application only

Focuses specifically on application to the skin or surface, omitting the "use" aspect.

for surface application only

Specifies that the application is limited to the surface level.

not for ingestion

Highlights that the product shouldn't be swallowed, which aligns with external usage.

apply externally only

Rephrases the instruction as a direct command regarding application.

external application only

Emphasizes the application aspect while retaining the 'external' restriction.

for dermal use only

Uses 'dermal' to specify skin-related application, fitting within external usage.

do not ingest

A more direct negative instruction, emphasizing avoidance of ingestion.

for outward application only

Utilizes 'outward' as a synonym for 'external', maintaining intended usage.

not for internal consumption

Specifically warns against consuming the product internally.

use on skin only

Simplifies the instruction to focus directly on skin application.

FAQs

What does "for external use only" mean?

It indicates that a product should be applied only to the outer parts of the body, such as the skin, and should not be ingested or used internally.

When should I use the phrase "for external use only"?

Use it on product labels or instructions when the product is intended solely for application to the external parts of the body and is not safe for internal consumption or use.

What can I say instead of "for external use only"?

You can use alternatives like "topical application only", "apply externally only", or "not for ingestion" depending on the specific context.

Is it always safe to assume a product labeled "for external use only" is safe for all skin types?

No, it's not. Always check for additional warnings or instructions regarding specific skin conditions, allergies, or sensitive areas to ensure safe usage even when a product is labeled "for external use only".