The spelling of "external audit" is as follows: /ɪkˈstɜː.nəl ɔː.dɪt/. The word "external" is spelled with a silent "n" before the "al" suffix. The word "audit" is spelled with the letter "d" after the "i" instead of "t" due to the presence of the suffix "-ed" in its past tense form. An external audit is a review of a company's financial statements by an independent auditor outside of the organization. The purpose of an external audit is to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting.
An external audit refers to a comprehensive examination and evaluation of an organization's financial statements, records, systems, and processes carried out by an independent third-party entity. This independent entity, known as an external auditor or audit firm, is hired by the organization to conduct the audit with the primary objective of determining the accuracy, reliability, and fairness of the financial information presented in the organization's financial statements.
External audits are a critical tool for ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) or international financial reporting standards (IFRS). The external auditor's main responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the financial statements present a true and fair view of the organization's financial position and performance.
During the external audit, the auditor assesses the organization's accounting methods, internal controls, and risk management practices to ascertain their effectiveness and identify any deficiencies or instances of fraud or noncompliance. The audit procedures may involve examining supporting documentation, conducting interviews with key personnel, and testing the accuracy and completeness of transactions.
The final audit report is the outcome of the external audit, which summarizes the auditor's findings, observations, and recommendations. This report provides valuable insights to stakeholders, including shareholders, lenders, regulators, and the general public, enabling them to make informed decisions about the organization's financial health and stability. Ultimately, external audits are crucial for maintaining investor confidence, ensuring good corporate governance, and enhancing the credibility and trustworthiness of an organization.
The word "external audit" has a straightforward etymology based on its individual components.
1. External: The word "external" comes from the Latin word "externus", meaning "outward" or "pertaining to the outside". It is derived from the prefix "ex-" which means "out" or "away from".
2. Audit: The word "audit" originates from the Latin word "audire", which means "to hear" or "to listen". In ancient Rome, an "audit" was a judicial examination or "hearing" of accounts to ensure accuracy. Over time, it evolved to refer to a thorough examination and evaluation of financial records.
Combining these two components, "external audit" refers to an examination and evaluation of financial records, conducted by an independent external entity or third-party, separate from the organization being audited.