Word
superficially
Phoneticssu·per·fi·cial·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsupɝˌfɪʃəɫi/
UK/sˈuːpəfˈɪʃəlˌi/
Definition
adv. in a way that only looks true or is only on the surface. You use this when something seems one way, but it is actually different underneath.
adv. in a manner that affects only the surface or is based on a lack of depth. Often used to describe appearances that do not reflect the underlying reality.
Examples
“The two companies look similar, but they are superficially different.”
“The two brothers appeared superficially identical, but their personalities were completely different.”
“While the two political movements share a common goal, their underlying philosophies are superficially similar but fundamentally incompatible.”
Examples
simple
“The two companies look similar, but they are superficially different.”
contextual
“The two brothers appeared superficially identical, but their personalities were completely different.”
complex
“While the two political movements share a common goal, their underlying philosophies are superficially similar but fundamentally incompatible.”
Real-World Examples
“Though superficially a frivolous party tune, there can scarcely have been a more succinct commentary on the sensitivities and myths surrounding inter-racial relationships.” “This would allow the company to superficially inflate its plan costs and skirt medical loss ratio rules to increase its profits.” Etymology
From superficial + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/superficially