The word "exterior" functions as an adjective.
/eksˈte.ɾi.or/
In Spanish, "exterior" refers to the outer part or outside of something. It can describe physical spaces, surfaces, or even non-physical concepts, such as the exterior of a person's character. The word is fairly common in everyday conversation as well as in written contexts, showing no significant preference for either.
"Exterior" is used frequently in both oral and written Spanish, especially in discussions relating to architecture, geography, and personal attributes.
El exterior del edificio está pintado de color blanco.
The exterior of the building is painted white.
Decidí hacer un picnic en el exterior del parque.
I decided to have a picnic outside in the park.
La exterior del coche necesita una limpieza.
The exterior of the car needs a cleaning.
The word "exterior" appears in a few idiomatic expressions in Spanish, often relating to appearances or outward qualities.
No juzgues un libro por su exterior.
Don’t judge a book by its cover.
(Meaning: One should not judge something solely based on its appearance.)
El exterior engaña a menudo.
The outside often deceives.
(Meaning: Looks can be misleading; appearances do not always reflect reality.)
El exterior puede ser atractivo, pero lo que importa es el interior.
The outside may be attractive, but what matters is the inside.
(Meaning: Inner qualities are more significant than outward appearances.)
La belleza está en el exterior, pero el valor está en el interior.
Beauty is on the outside, but worth is on the inside.
(Meaning: External beauty isn't as meaningful as internal qualities.)
The word "exterior" comes from the Latin "exterior, exteriorem," which is the comparative form of "exterus," meaning "outer." It carries the same meaning across various languages derived from Latin, emphasizing its long-standing usage to describe the outside part of something.