Synonyms of superficial

superficial

adjective

ˌsü-pər-ˈfi-shəl 

1

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

• surface
• shallow
• skin-deep
• two-dimensional
• depthless
• shoal
• external

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deep
• deep-seated

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shallow
• one-dimensional
• limited
• facile
• random
• skin-deep
• cursory
• narrow
• hasty
• passing
• sketchy
• haphazard
• aimless
• oversimple
• restricted
• desultory
• hit-or-miss

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deep
• profound
• general
• penetrating
• extensive
• broad
• wide
• hard
• complete
• comprehensive
• definitive
• exhaustive
• discerning
• global
• detailed
• inclusive
• critical
• penetrant
• far-reaching
• in-depth

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of superficial

But a focus on just its components is too superficial and narrow a perspective. —Gary Roughead, Foreign Affairs, 2 Sep. 2025

With Marshall Curry‘s The New Yorker at 100, a magazine famous for its erudition and curation receives a polished, amusing and generally superficial Reader’s Digest summary of a documentary. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 30 Aug. 2025

Romantic affairs are less superficial and more about making memories that bring you personal fulfillment. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 25 Aug. 2025

Gaming laptops tend to adhere to a pretty specific design aesthetic, with thick chassis designs, large ventilation grilles, and a handful of superficial features for visual interest. —Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 25 Aug. 2025