internally
adv.-
1 inside a body or object (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediate Medicineinside the body or within the physical limits of an object.
within the interior of a physical structure or biological organism.
ExampleThe medicine works internally to reduce pain throughout your body.
ExampleThe scan revealed that the patient was bleeding internally, necessitating immediate surgical intervention to locate the source.
UsageOften used in medical contexts to describe processes not visible on the surface.
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2 within an organisation (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediate Academicinside a company or group rather than involving people from outside.
relating to the inner workings or domestic affairs of an institution or organisation.
ExampleThe company decided to hire someone internally for the manager job.
ExampleThe board preferred to resolve the dispute internally rather than risking a public scandal by involving outside mediators.
UsageCommon in business and legal English when discussing policy or recruitment.
- in house
- domestically
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3 in one's mind (adv.) C1 Advanced Literaryinside your own mind or thoughts without showing it to others.
within the mind or soul; not expressed or manifested outwardly.
ExampleShe was screaming internally, but her face remained calm and professional.
ExampleHe processed the criticism internally for several days before finally offering a measured response to his colleagues.
UsageFrequently used to describe emotional states that contrast with a person's outward appearance.
From internal + -ly.