Shallowness Meaning: Definition and Examples
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shallowness
[ˈʃæl.oʊ.nəs ]
Definition
lack of depth
Shallowness refers to the state of being shallow, characterized by a lack of physical depth or emotional depth. In a physical context, it describes an area that is not deep, such as water or a dish. In an emotional or intellectual context, it signifies superficiality, where there is an absence of profound understanding or meaning.
Synonyms
emptiness, frivolity, superficiality, surface.
Examples of usage
- The shallowness of the pool made it safe for children.
- Her shallowness in discussions frustrated her more insightful friends.
- The shallowness of the conversation left him feeling unfulfilled.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research suggests that shallowness in emotional connections can lead to loneliness and dissatisfaction in relationships.
- Cognitive psychologists note that shallow thinking often limits creativity and problem-solving abilities.
- Shallowness can also relate to surface-level judgments, often appearing in social media interactions where depth is often sacrificed for brevity.
Literature
- In literature, characters demonstrating shallowness often serve to highlight deeper themes, such as moral ambiguity or materialism.
- Classic novels frequently portray the shallow side of society, critiquing the emphasis on wealth and status rather than genuine connection.
- Famous works, like F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby', explore the shallowness of the American Dream.
Pop Culture
- Television shows often use shallow characters for comedic effect, showing surface-level traits that contrast with deeper main characters.
- In music, lyrics that focus on superficial themes tend to reflect societal trends and are often criticized for lacking depth.
- Shallowness in celebrity culture can lead to obsession based on appearances rather than personality or talent.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have long debated the implications of shallowness in both thought and action, emphasizing a balance between being practical and profound.
- Existentialists argue that a shallow existence often leads to a search for deeper meaning, illustrating the human condition's complexity.
- Various philosophical critiques explore how societal values can promote shallowness at the expense of authenticity and introspection.
Origin of 'shallowness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'shallow', which has roots in Old English 'sceald', meaning shallow or less deep.
- The suffix '-ness' is used to form nouns that express a state or quality, leading to 'shallowness' as a measure of being shallow.
- The transformation of words from Old English to Modern English showcases how language evolves over time.
The term 'shallowness' dates back to the early 19th century, derived from the adjective 'shallow', which originates from the Old English word ' sceald ' meaning 'to be shallow or insubstantial'. The suffix '-ness' is used to form nouns indicating a state or condition. Thus, 'shallowness' has been adopted into the English language to denote not only a physical lack of depth, such as in bodies of water or containers, but also a metaphorical application where ideas, emotions, or relationships are perceived as lacking substance or complexity. This word has since evolved in everyday usage, often highlighting the societal emphasis on both intellectual depth and emotional intelligence.