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

Synonym Chooser

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 These designs offer something more fundamental than a little superficial soothing or the consolations of veneer. —

Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 Jan. 2025 The question is how, despite their superficial similarity, this mother and son came to be parted, and why Ann has been unable to respond to Peter’s obvious angst. —

Tom Crewe, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2025 Moscow knows that its often superficial commitment to cultural conservatism gives it soft power with the American right. —

Alexander Cooley, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 There are beautiful things about being an actor, but there are also some kind of superficial ones. —

Chris Vognar, Los Angeles Times, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for superficial