1
as in surface
lying on or affecting only the outer layer of something
a superficial scratch that barely even broke the skin
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2
as in shallow
having or showing a lack of depth of understanding or character
a superficial analysis of how the violence in video games affects young people
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Recent Examples of superficial
There is no shortage of networking tips available, much of which emphasize mass online outreach or rapid-fire, speed-dating-type interactions at events—these superficial tactics may expand your contact list but require thoughtful follow-up to foster meaningful connections.
—
Rekha Thomas, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
The state of Florida has taken multiple superficial steps to wipe out the pythons, including launching or encouraging contests like the Florida Python Challenge.
—Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Mar. 2025
The older women in Shula’s family, despite superficial gestures of support and compassion, do not prove much better.
—Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 7 Mar. 2025
There are a couple of superficial parallels to the present day.
—New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 2 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for superficial
Rekha Thomas, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
The state of Florida has taken multiple superficial steps to wipe out the pythons, including launching or encouraging contests like the Florida Python Challenge.
—Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Mar. 2025
The older women in Shula’s family, despite superficial gestures of support and compassion, do not prove much better.
—Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 7 Mar. 2025
There are a couple of superficial parallels to the present day.
—New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 2 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for superficial
Cite this Entry
“Superficial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/superficial. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.
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