superficial Definition
- 1existing or occurring at or on the surface
- 2appearing 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
Idioms Using superficial
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 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.
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
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.
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'
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.'
