What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
externity
Example
The externity of the situation made it difficult for him to understand the complexities involved. [externity: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of externity when she visited the new city for the first time. [externity: noun]
externality
Example
The externality of pollution affects not only the local environment but also the health of people living in the surrounding areas. [externality: noun]
Example
The company failed to consider the externality of their decision, which resulted in negative consequences for the community. [externality: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Externality is more commonly used than externity in everyday language, especially in academic and professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between externity and externality?
Both externity and externality can be used in formal writing or academic contexts, but externality is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.