ENGLISH
REFERENCE

outward

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈaʊtwɝd// UK //ˈaʊtwəd// out·ward Archaic

adj. relating to how something looks on the outside, rather than how it is on the inside. It describes the part of something that people can see or the direction away from a center.

adj. relating to the external appearance or surface of something, often in contrast to its internal reality. Also describes movement directed away from a central point or origin.


SIMPLE

She maintained an outward appearance of calm during the interview.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite his outward confidence, he felt extremely nervous about the presentation.

COMPLEX

The company's outward success masked a series of internal financial crises that eventually led to its sudden collapse.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology 1

From Middle English outward, from Old English ūtweard, equivalent to out + -ward.

Etymology 2

From out- + ward.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun. Often contrasted with 'inward' or 'internal'.

Pitfall

The outward of the buildingThe exterior of the buildingLearners often use 'outward' as a noun, but it is primarily an adjective; 'exterior' or 'outside' should be used for the noun form.

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