Superficially: meaning, definitions and examples
🧐
superficially
[ ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl.i ]
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| superficially |
Used when describing something done or observed in a way that lacks depth or thoroughness.
|
| shallow |
Often used to describe someone or something that lacks depth in terms of thought, emotion, or knowledge. Can carry a negative connotation.
|
| surface-level |
Describes an understanding or explanation that only touches the outer layer of a subject. Often implies that more depth is needed.
|
| superficial |
Describes something that is on the surface, not deep or thorough, and can imply a lack of seriousness or importance. Often used in a negative context.
|
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.
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| superficially |
Use this word when referring to something that is done on the surface or without going into depth. It often implies a lack of thoroughness.
|
| superficial |
Describes something that appears to be true or real only on the surface. It often implies shallowness and a lack of depth or significance.
|
| cursory |
This word is often used to describe things done quickly and without paying attention to detail. It suggests that the task was not thoroughly completed.
|
| perfunctory |
Used to describe actions that are performed out of routine or duty, without enthusiasm or thoroughness. It often carries a negative connotation.
|
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
Etymology
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.