Superficially: meaning, definitions and examples

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superficially

 

[ ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl.i ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a surface manner

Superficially means on the surface or shallowly. When something is done superficially, it is done without delving deep or thoroughly. It is often used to describe a lack of depth or detail in understanding or knowledge.

Synonyms

shallow, superficial, surface-level

Examples of usage

  • Although he seemed knowledgeable, he only understood the topic superficially.
  • She skimmed through the report superficially, missing important details.
  • The investigation was conducted superficially, leading to inaccurate conclusions.
Context #2 | Adverb

without thorough examination or analysis

Superficially can also mean without thorough examination or analysis. It implies a lack of depth in studying or investigating something.

Synonyms

cursory, perfunctory, superficial

Examples of usage

  • She superficially glanced at the document before making a decision.
  • The problem was only superficially addressed, leading to further complications.
  • He superficially considered the options before choosing the easiest one.

Translations

Translations of the word "superficially" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superficialmente

🇮🇳 ऊपरी तौर पर

🇩🇪 oberflächlich

🇮🇩 secara dangkal

🇺🇦 поверхово

🇵🇱 powierzchownie

🇯🇵 表面的に (ひょうめんてきに)

🇫🇷 superficiellement

🇪🇸 superficialmente

🇹🇷 yüzeysel olarak

🇰🇷 표면적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل سطحي

🇨🇿 povrchně

🇸🇰 povrchovo

🇨🇳 表面上 (biǎo miàn shàng)

🇸🇮 površinsko

🇮🇸 yfirborðslega

🇰🇿 үстіртін

🇬🇪 ზედაპირულად

🇦🇿 səthi

🇲🇽 superficialmente

Word origin

The word 'superficially' originated from the Latin word 'superficialis', which means 'of or relating to the surface'. It has been used in English since the 16th century. Over time, the word has come to signify a lack of depth or thoroughness in various contexts, from knowledge to analysis. Its usage has evolved to encompass both literal and metaphorical meanings, illustrating a surface-level understanding or treatment of a subject.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,699, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.