Superficial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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superficial

[ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

appearance

Existing or occurring at or on the surface. Shallow rather than deep. Lacking depth of character or understanding. Concerned only with what is obvious or apparent.

Synonyms

external, shallow, skin-deep, surface-level.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
superficial	Used to describe something that appears or is concerned only with the surface or outer appearance, often neglecting deeper significance or complexity. Can have a negative connotation. Her understanding of the topic was superficial at best. Their relationship was very superficial, based only on looks.
surface-level	Describes something that only deals with the most obvious or apparent aspects of a subject. Often used to imply that a deeper understanding or investigation is needed. Our discussion was very surface-level, we didn't get into the details. The report offers a surface-level analysis of the problem.
shallow	Often used to describe something or someone that lacks depth in character, intelligence, or seriousness. This term usually carries a negative connotation. His comments on the subject were very shallow. She has a shallow interest in the arts, enjoying only the most popular pieces.
external	Refers to something on the outside or something that comes from outside a particular place or group. It does not imply any judgment about depth or complexity. The external walls of the building need repainting. We need to consider external factors when making this decision.
skin-deep	Describes something that is only on the surface and not deep or genuinely meaningful. Frequently used to remark on the lack of depth, particularly when discussing beauty or emotions. Her beauty is only skin-deep. Their concern for the issue seemed skin-deep.

Examples of usage

She had a superficial wound on her arm.
His superficial charm belied a lack of sincerity.
The painting had a superficial beauty that lacked emotional depth.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

science

Relating to or situated on the surface of something.

Synonyms

external, outer, surface-level.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
superficial	Use 'superficial' to describe something that appears only on the surface and lacks depth or significance. It often has a negative connotation. Her understanding of the topic was quite superficial He made a few superficial remarks about the event
surface-level	Use 'surface-level' to describe something that is only on the surface and does not go into deeper details. This term often implies a lack of depth but is neutral in tone. Their analysis of the problem was surface-level The conversation remained surface-level and did not delve into personal topics
outer	Use 'outer' to describe something that is on the outside or furthest from the center, often in a spatial context. She lives in the outer suburbs of the city The spaceship's outer hull was damaged
external	Use 'external' to refer to something that is outside or outward, often with a focus on physical location or appearance. The external walls of the building need painting He looked for external solutions to his problems

Examples of usage

The superficial layer of the skin protects the body from external elements.
The superficial veins are located just beneath the skin.

^{Context #3 | Adverb}

informal

In a way that is not thorough, deep, or complete.

Synonyms

cursorily, lightly, superficially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
superficial	Used to describe something that is shallow or lacks depth, often in a negative way when referring to people's attitudes or understanding. His knowledge of the subject is superficial at best She gave a superficial apology that lacked sincerity
lightly	Generally used when an action is done in a gentle, delicate, or not serious manner. It can have a positive or neutral connotation depending on the context. He touched her hand lightly and smiled She took his joke lightly and laughed
cursorily	Applied when something is done quickly and without thorough attention to detail, highlighting a lack of depth or thoroughness. She cursorily read through the report before the meeting The inspection was done cursorily, missing several critical issues
superficially	Describes the manner of doing something in a shallow way, often suggesting a lack of depth or thoroughness. Usually carries a negative connotation. The article superficially covered the topic and missed important details He superficially cleaned the room, leaving much of the mess untouched

Examples of usage

He only skimmed the book superficially before the exam.
She superficially glanced at the report without delving into the details.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

People often judge others based on superficial traits like looks or clothes, which can affect social interactions.
Psychological studies suggest that superficial judgments can lead to misinterpretations of a person’s character.

Pop Culture

In many TV shows and movies, superficial characters are depicted as being obsessed with looks or popularity, often leading to humorous situations.
Songs and literature frequently critique superficiality in relationships, encouraging deeper connections.

Philosophy

Philosophers often debate the importance of depth in human interactions versus surface-level understandings.
Superficiality is seen in discussions about modern society's tendency to prioritize appearance over substance.

Education

In learning environments, superficial understanding of topics can hinder critical thinking and deeper knowledge acquisition.
Teachers encourage students to look beyond superficial aspects to gain a fuller appreciation of subjects.

Origin of 'superficial'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'superficialis', which means 'of the surface'.
It first appeared in English around the late 14th century, evolving from meanings related to 'shallow' or 'surface-level'.

The word 'superficial' originated from the Latin word 'superficialis', meaning 'of or relating to the surface'. It first appeared in English in the late 14th century. Over time, the word has maintained its core meaning of being on or near the surface, both literally and figuratively.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,791 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5788 investigators
5789 competitors
5790 exported
5791 superficial
5792 transmit
5793 assessing
5794 deliberate
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