Meaning and Usage
The word '외부' refers to the outside or exterior of something, often used to describe physical spaces or abstract concepts like external parties or influences. It is a noun and commonly appears in formal or neutral contexts.
Common Collocations
- 외부 사람 (external person): referring to someone not belonging to a group or organization.
- 외부 공사 (exterior construction): construction work done on the outside of a building.
- 외부 전문가 (external expert): a specialist from outside the organization.
Usage Notes
When using '외부', speakers often imply a distinction between inside and outside, whether physical or organizational. It is frequently used in business, construction, and social contexts to specify something or someone external.
Be careful not to confuse '외부' with '밖', which also means outside but is more casual and often used for physical locations. '외부' is more formal and abstract.
Register
'외부' is generally neutral to formal and suitable for written and spoken Korean in professional or academic settings.