lacking depth

USAGE SUMMARY

"lacking depth" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something (e.g. a topic or idea) that is shallow or superficial. For example: "His essay on the French Revolution was disappointing; it was lacking depth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The ensemble tends towards a muddy monochrome, lacking depth and differences in texture.

The Guardian - Money

Although frequently lacking depth and sophistication, the books could provide steady, if modest, income for female authors.

Cornell University

Already lacking depth at most infield positions, the Mets will start the spring-training schedule Wednesday against the Dodgers with Joe McEwing at shortstop.

The New York Times - Sports

Though it was considered a stunning cinematic display (it won the Academy Award for best costumes), the movie was largely panned by critics for lacking depth.

Britannica

Now that we've established how you, lacking depth perception, see the objects around you let's see what happens when you're placed on a surface, for example the sphere.

Cornell University

London reviewers, while admiring the care and ingenuity that went into the installations, have tended to dismiss "Bum Bum" as lacking depth.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

He lacks depth and dimension.

The New York Times - Books

They lack depth.

The Guardian - Opinion

For me his portrayal lacked depth.

The New York Times - Arts

It lacks depth, he says.

The Guardian - Travel

Like many smaller clubs we lack depth.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacking depth", ensure that your critique is specific. Instead of simply stating that something lacks depth, explain which aspects are superficial or underdeveloped. For example, specify if it's the character development, the analysis, or the research that needs more substance.

Common error

Avoid using "lacking depth" in casual conversation. It can sound overly critical and pretentious in informal settings. Opt for simpler phrases like "not very thorough" or "a bit shallow" to convey a similar meaning without sounding overly academic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacking depth" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency in thoroughness, complexity, or insight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys that the subject is superficial or underdeveloped. It highlights that something does not have sufficient detail or substance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

16%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lacking depth" effectively conveys that something is superficial or underdeveloped, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Functioning as a descriptive adjective phrase, it's commonly employed to critique or evaluate across diverse sources like news, academic papers, and encyclopedias. While its register is generally neutral to formal, it is most commonly found across media, academic and encyclopedia contexts. Related phrases include "superficial", "shallow", and "insubstantial". To use it effectively, specify the aspects that are underdeveloped, and avoid using it in casual conversations where a simpler alternative would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superficial

Describes something that is on the surface and not thorough.

shallow

Similar to superficial, indicating a lack of intellectual or emotional depth.

insubstantial

Suggests a lack of solidity or real content.

cursory

Implies a quick and incomplete examination.

simplistic

Describes something that is overly simplified and doesn't account for complexities.

deficient in detail

Highlights the absence of specific information.

wanting in substance

Emphasizes the lack of meaningful content or quality.

skin-deep

Indicates that something is only concerned with appearances.

without profundity

Formally expresses the absence of deep insight or understanding.

intellectually wanting

Indicates a lack of intellectual rigor or sophistication.

FAQs

How can I use "lacking depth" in a sentence?

You can use "lacking depth" to describe anything that is superficial or underdeveloped. For example, "The movie was visually stunning, but the plot was "lacking depth"".

What are some alternatives to "lacking depth"?

Some alternatives include "superficial", "shallow", or "insubstantial", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something is described as "lacking depth"?

When something is described as "lacking depth", it means that it does not have enough detail, complexity, or insight. It remains on the surface and does not explore the underlying issues or nuances.

Is it always negative to say something is "lacking depth"?

Yes, describing something as "lacking depth" is generally negative, as it implies a deficiency in thoroughness or understanding. However, whether this is a major flaw depends on the context and purpose. For instance, a light-hearted comedy might intentionally be "superficial".