What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exterior
Example
The exterior of the house was painted blue. [exterior: noun]
Example
She admired the exterior of the car, noting its sleek design. [exterior: adjective]
appearance
Example
Her appearance was striking, with her bright red hair and green eyes. [appearance: noun]
Example
He worked hard to maintain his appearance, always dressing sharply and grooming himself well. [appearance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Appearance is more commonly used than exterior in everyday language. Appearance is a more general term that can be applied to a wide range of visual attributes, while exterior is more specific and is typically used in technical or architectural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exterior and appearance?
Both exterior and appearance can be used in formal or informal contexts, but exterior may be more commonly used in technical or specialized fields, while appearance is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
