What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
externally
Example
The company is facing external pressures from competitors in the market. [externally: adverb]
Example
The external walls of the building were painted blue. [external: adjective]
outside
Example
I like to sit outside on the porch and read. [outside: adverb]
Example
The outside of the car was covered in dirt. [outside: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outside is more commonly used than externally in everyday language. Outside is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while externally is less common and typically used in formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between externally and outside?
Externally is more formal and technical than outside, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.