Superficial: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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