external change
[ɪkˈstɜːrnəl tʃeɪndʒ]
nounpl: external changes
mudança externa
1. a transformation or alteration that occurs in or affects the outside appearance, form, or structure of something, rather than its internal nature or essence
The company underwent external changes to improve its public image.
A empresa passou por mudanças externas para melhorar sua imagem pública.
2. in philosophy and science, modifications to observable or measurable properties without affecting the fundamental or intrinsic qualities
The external changes in weather patterns are affecting crop production.
As mudanças externas nos padrões climáticos estão afetando a produção agrícola.
3. alterations in superficial characteristics, appearance, or conditions visible from outside
Despite the external changes to the building, its internal structure remained intact.
Apesar das mudanças externas no edifício, sua estrutura interna permaneceu intacta.
The term 'external change' is commonly used in Brazilian and American business contexts when discussing corporate rebranding, facility renovations, or organizational restructuring. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, there is often an emphasis on distinguishing between 'mudança externa' (superficial) and 'mudança interna' (substantive), reflecting a cultural value on authenticity and genuine transformation over mere appearance.
Related Idioms & Phrases
don't judge a book by its cover (referring to not being fooled by external changes)
a fresh coat of paint (superficial external change)
putting lipstick on a pig (making cosmetic external changes to mask deeper problems)
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