Cool MateExternal vs Foreign
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| External | Foreign | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Relating to the outside or outer part. | Something that comes from another country. |
| CEFR level | B2 | A2 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adjective |
| Usage notes | Use 'external' when referring to things on the outside, like a person's external features. Avoid using it in very casual speech. | Use 'foreign' when describing something from outside your own country. It's common in discussions about travel, culture, or citizenship. Avoid using it in overly informal situations. |
Frequently asked questions: External vs Foreign
What's the difference between "External" and "Foreign"?
"External" means: Relating to the outside or outer part. "Foreign" means: Something that comes from another country.
When should I use "External" and "Foreign"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "External" and "Foreign" the same CEFR level?
"External" is at B2, "Foreign" is at A2 on the CEFR scale.