superficial — existing or occurring at or on the surface; appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing or occurring at or on the surface; appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl/
Example Sentences
- Don't judge people by their superficial appearance - some of the most interesting people look like they haven't slept in weeks!
- His superficial knowledge of cooking was exposed when he tried to boil water and somehow managed to burn it.
- The superficial similarities between the twins end when you realize one loves math and the other thinks algebra is a country.
superficial
ADJECTIVE[/ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl/]
existing or occurring at or on the surface; appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely
Beautiful on the outside, but empty inside — superficial
Removing the artificial reveals what's truly beneficial!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'superficialis', derived from 'superficies' meaning 'surface' (from 'super' meaning 'over' and 'facies' meaning 'face' or 'surface'). The word entered English in the 14th century via Old French.
Breakdown
super- (over, above) + fici- (from facies, meaning face/surface) + -al (adjective suffix) = superficial
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Don't judge people by their superficial appearance - some of the most interesting people look like they haven't slept in weeks!”
“His superficial knowledge of cooking was exposed when he tried to boil water and somehow managed to burn it.”
“The superficial similarities between the twins end when you realize one loves math and the other thinks algebra is a country.”
“The doctor said it was just a superficial cut and would heal quickly.”
📚Related Words
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