Words / B1

in-TEERR-ee-uh/ɪnˈtɪəriə/

The interior is the inside of a building or vehicle: smoke damaged the interior. Interior also names a government department in some countries (not the usual UK word — that is the Home Office). Internal is the adjective cousin; inside is everyday. Exterior is the opposite. Fires: interior damaged, roof intact.

Meaning

The inside of a building or vehicle; also a government department in some countries.

Examples

• “Smoke damaged the interior, but the roof stayed intact.”
• “Interior lights must stay on during the practical, which is the adjective use.”

Good to know

the interior of a building / car. Opposite: the exterior. Everyday: inside. Adjective: interior lighting. Mix-up: internal (organisation).

Near in meaning

inside

New