Language Point 32

...rely on external factors - their looks or status - in order to feel good about themselves. (Para. 12)

external: a. 1. (figurative) easily seen but not essential; on the surface

Going to church seems like an external act of praise.

上教堂做禮拜似乎是一種表面贊美上帝的行為。

2. outside

the external layer of skin皮膚的表層

external air 外部的空氣

This material is good for the house to keep out external heat.

這材料對防止室外的熱量進入屋內很有用。

Many external factors affect the market in this country.

許多外界因素影響著這個國家的市場。

Externally he appears really calm, but on the inside he is as worried as anyone else is.

表面上他很平靜，但內心卻與其他人一樣的不安。

feel good: feel happy, confident, pleased with oneself

I feel good when I'm singing. 我唱歌時感覺很好。

Some people give money to the poor not so much because they are concerned about doing good, but because it makes them feel good.

有的人給窮人錢不是因為他們熱心為善，而是因為這樣做可以使他們感覺好些。