SUPERFICIAL Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'superficial' contrast with its synonyms?

The words cursory and shallow are common synonyms of superficial . While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features. // a superficial analysis of the problem

Q: When can 'cursory' be used instead of 'superficial'?

In some situations, the words cursory and superficial are roughly equivalent. However, cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details. // gave the letter only a cursory reading

Q: When might 'shallow' be a better fit than 'superficial'?

Although the words shallow and superficial have much in common, shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character. // a light, shallow , and frivolous review

superficial

adjective

ˌsü-pər-ˈfi-shəl

Definition of superficial next

as in surface

lying on or affecting only the outer layer of something a superficial scratch that barely even broke the skin

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the adjective superficial contrast with its synonyms?

The words cursory and shallow are common synonyms of superficial. While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features.

a superficial analysis of the problem

When can cursory be used instead of superficial?

In some situations, the words cursory and superficial are roughly equivalent. However, cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details.

gave the letter only a cursory reading

When might shallow be a better fit than superficial?

Although the words shallow and superficial have much in common, shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character.

a light, shallow, and frivolous review

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of superficial So, rather than simply disciplining the rogue data refiners, the executives acknowledge their feelings by enacting superficial refinements at Lumon. —

Ben Travers, IndieWire, 17 Jan. 2025 Exceptions include satirical cartoons or images altered only to change the saturation, brightness, contrast, color or other superficial quality. —

Alex Golden, Axios, 17 Jan. 2025 But too much of it felt like it was made by people trying to re-create the superficial weirdness of Lynch without understanding the emotional heft that had to support it. —

Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 16 Jan. 2025 Dan echoed this sentiment, rejecting superficial solutions like additional meetings and emphasizing the need for meaningful work, fair pay, and flexibility. —

Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for superficial