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superficial
/ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl/
lacking depth or substance
His knowledge of the subject was superficial.
He only knew basic facts without deep understanding.
general
Lacking depth or thoroughness; concerned only with surface aspects.
The report provided a superficial analysis of the problem.
It only covered the basic points without detailed examination.
Their relationship was superficial.
They didn't have a deep emotional connection.
Often used to describe things that appear impressive but lack substance.
Collocations
superficial knowledgebasic understanding without depthsuperficial resemblancesimilarity only in appearancesuperficial woundminor injury that doesn't penetrate deeply
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Often used to criticize things that appear good but lack real value.
Gold Rule
Avoid Misuse
Don't use for things that are literally on the surface (use 'surface' instead).
Word Origin
From Latin 'superficiālis', from 'superficies' (surface) + '-alis' (relating to).
Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (physical surfaces) and figuratively (lacking depth in thought or emotion).
Word Breakdown
super-
above, beyond
prefix-ficial
relating to surface
root-al
relating to
suffixEnglish Dictionary