What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cursorily
Example
I only had time to read the report cursorily before the meeting. [cursorily: adverb]
Example
She scanned the article cursorily, looking for any important details. [cursorily: adverb]
superficially
Example
He only knows superficially about the topic, so he can't offer much insight. [superficially: adverb]
Example
She studied the material superficially, so she didn't do well on the exam. [superficially: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Superficially is more commonly used than cursorily in everyday language. Superficially is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cursorily is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cursorily and superficially?
Cursorily is more formal than superficially. It is often used in academic or professional settings, while superficially can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
