I was shallow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was shallow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a past state of being superficial or lacking depth in thoughts, feelings, or character. Example: "Looking back at my teenage years, I realize that I was shallow and focused only on appearances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It's not like I was shallow and complex when I met Mr. Rogers," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

I assumed they would see or hear the word "fun" and think I was shallow, or not looking for a relationship with substance, or anything deep or meaningful.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Perhaps I'm shallow, but I've always been easily moved by beautiful objects and items.

The New York Times - Style

"My friends think I'm shallow, but for me it's a physiological boost".

The New York Times

I don't know if they invent their names but everyone thinks I'm shallow enough to have invented mine".

The Guardian

I'm shallow.

Vice

You're positively glowing, are you always so happy?" It's not that I'm shallow, but I have to admit that it does feel good.

Huffington Post

If I saw someone wearing this I would want to be their friend, but that's because I'm shallow and judge people strictly by their appearances.

Vice

When she was asked what publications she read my guess is, mindful of her handlers' advice, she played scenarios out in her mind: "If I say Glamour, they'll think I'm shallow.

Huffington Post

"I don't like his other work, I think it's shallow and badly written," he said.

The Guardian - Film

I sit on my board and wait – more out of habit than necessity because where I am it's shallow enough to stand.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was shallow" to introduce a contrasting perspective or realization you've had, showcasing a shift in your values or understanding.

Common error

Avoid shifting tenses when discussing your past shallowness. Ensure that the surrounding sentences also use past tense to maintain consistency and clarity. For example, don't say "I was shallow, and now I am going to focus on deeper connections" – instead, say "I was shallow, and now I focus on deeper connections."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was shallow" functions as a statement of past self-assessment. It expresses a retrospective acknowledgment of one's former superficiality or lack of depth. Ludwig AI indicates grammatical correctness, supported by real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was shallow" is a grammatically sound phrase used to reflect on a past state of superficiality or lack of depth. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and examples from various sources show it's commonly used in News & Media contexts to express personal growth or changed perspectives. While not exceedingly common, it's a useful phrase for self-assessment and storytelling. Remember to use consistent tenses and consider the context when using "I was shallow", and follow it with an explanation of how you've changed or grown since then to demonstrate self-awareness and personal development.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I used to be superficial

Focuses on past behavior characterized by a concern with appearances and trivialities.

I once lacked depth

Highlights a past absence of profound understanding or insight.

I was formerly superficial

Similar to 'I used to be superficial' but uses 'formerly' to emphasize the past state.

I had a superficial phase

Indicates that being superficial was a temporary part of one's life.

I prioritized appearances in the past

Emphasizes that appearance and external factors had the higher value in past.

I was image-conscious back then

Specifies that the lack of depth was based on the personal image.

I cared too much about trivial things

Explains what it meant to be shallow by focusing on valuing unimportant things.

I was materialistic back then

Focuses on past behavior linked to the materialism and external values.

My priorities were misguided in the past

The subject admits his/her lack of wisdom, and acknowledges misguided actions.

I was less thoughtful in those days

Focuses on a past lack of consideration or empathy towards others.

FAQs

How can I use "I was shallow" in a sentence?

You can use "I was shallow" to acknowledge a past lack of depth or superficiality, as in, "Looking back, "I was shallow" and focused too much on appearances."

What's a more formal way to say "I was shallow"?

A more formal alternative to "I was shallow" could be "I once lacked depth" or "I used to be superficial", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to admit "I was shallow" in a professional setting?

Admitting ""I was shallow"" in a professional setting depends on the context. It's generally acceptable if you're illustrating personal growth or self-awareness, but avoid using it in situations where it might undermine your credibility.

What's the difference between saying "I was shallow" and "I'm shallow"?

Saying ""I was shallow"" indicates a past state of superficiality, while "I'm shallow" implies that you currently possess this trait. The former suggests growth, while the latter suggests a current characteristic.