superficial

[ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl]

superficial Definition

• 1. existing or occurring at or on the surface
• 2. appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely

Using superficial: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "superficial" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The wound was superficial and did not require stitches.

• Example

  He had a superficial understanding of the subject.

• Example

  She made only a superficial attempt to clean the house.

superficial Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for superficial

• surface
• outward
• shallow
• external
• skin-deep

Antonyms for superficial

• deep
• profound
• thorough

Idioms Using superficial

• a superficial resemblance

  a similarity that is only on the surface and does not go deeper than appearances

  Example

  Although they look alike, the two plants have only a superficial resemblance.

• a superficial treatment

  a treatment that only addresses the surface symptoms of a problem and does not address the underlying causes

  Example

  The medication provided only a superficial treatment for his illness.

• superficially similar

  appearing to be similar on the surface but actually different in important ways

  Example

  The two theories are superficially similar, but they have significant differences.

Phrases with superficial

• superficial charm

  the tendency to be smooth, engaging, charming, slick, and verbally facile in social situations while lacking sincerity and depth

  Example

  The con artist used his superficial charm to deceive his victims.

• superficial wound

  a wound that affects only the surface of the skin

  Example

  The doctor cleaned and bandaged the superficial wound on my arm.

• superficial knowledge

  knowledge that is limited to the surface or obvious aspects of a subject

  Example

  He has only a superficial knowledge of history.

Origins of superficial

from Late Latin 'superficialis', from Latin 'superficium', meaning 'surface'

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Summary: superficial in Brief

The term 'superficial' [ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl] refers to something that exists or occurs on the surface, or appears to be true only until examined more closely. It can describe wounds, attempts, and understanding, as in 'The wound was superficial and did not require stitches.' 'Superficial' extends into phrases like 'superficial charm,' and idioms like 'a superficial treatment,' denoting a lack of depth. Antonyms include 'deep' and 'profound.'