less superficial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less superficial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is more profound or deeper in nature, often in contrast to something that is considered shallow or lacking depth. Example: "The discussion we had last night was much less superficial than our usual conversations, delving into our true feelings and beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The lead narrator Andy's moaning also began to seem less superficial and more universally applicable.

The Guardian - Books

For him, he explained, an installation also was about making the presentation of fashion "less superficial".

The New York Times

Despite New Year's resolutions to be less superficial, I can't get past thin shakers, thick glasses or dumb garnishes.

The New York Times - Style

"The people here are so much friendlier and so much less superficial than back in London," she said.

The New York Times - Travel

More likely the culture is evolving, away from a celebration of hedonism and towards less superficial thrills.

Independent

If a face transplant demonstrates anything about what it means to be human, it may be that we are less superficial than we imagine.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"The saddest and most unsettling element of 'Unfaithful' is its portrayal of an affluent, articulate couple who for all their individual sensitivity can barely bring themselves to communicate on a less than superficial level," Stephen Holden wrote in The Times about this drama, adapted from Claude Chabrol's "Femme Infid?." KATHRYN SHATTUCK.

The New York Times

Later, as we watch him bounce baby Jasper on his knee (noting how closely the tyke resembles the man most opposed to his conception), the film becomes less a superficial chronicle of one woman's desire for a child than a recognition of the forces that kick into play once that child has arrived.

The New York Times

"The saddest and most unsettling element of 'Unfaithful' is its portrayal of an affluent, articulate couple who for all their individual sensitivity can barely bring themselves to communicate on a less than superficial level," Stephen Holden wrote in The Times about this drama, adapted from Claude Chabrol's film "La Femme Infidèle".

The New York Times - Arts

Later, as Ms. Davenport's father bounces her baby on his knee, "the film becomes less a superficial chronicle of one woman's desire for a child than a recognition of the forces that kick into play once that child has arrived," Jeannette Catsoulis wrote in The Times.

The New York Times - Arts

Furthermore, runoff generates a less dense superficial layer, which triggers the development of an ephemeral chemocline in the mixolimnion.

Journal of Hydrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less superficial" to contrast shallow or trivial aspects with more significant or profound elements. For example: "Focus on the project's core values for a "less superficial" understanding."

Common error

Avoid using "less superficial" in very casual conversations where simpler terms like "deeper" or "more real" would be more appropriate. Overuse in informal settings may sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less superficial" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. According to Ludwig, it describes something that is not as shallow or surface-level, indicating a deeper or more substantial quality. The examples demonstrate its use in contrasting aspects, highlighting a shift towards depth and significance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less superficial" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that conveys a comparative degree of depth and thoughtfulness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is commonly found in contexts like News & Media and Science. When aiming for alternatives, consider "more profound" or "more meaningful" to express similar concepts. Avoid overuse in casual contexts to maintain appropriate tone. The phrase serves to elevate discourse by contrasting surface-level understanding with more profound insights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more profound

Focuses on the depth of understanding or insight.

more meaningful

Stresses the importance and significance of something.

more substantive

Emphasizes the importance of having a solid basis or foundation.

more insightful

Highlights the quality of revealing a deeper understanding.

more thoughtful

Emphasizes careful consideration and depth of reflection.

more genuine

Implies authenticity and sincerity, contrasting with artificiality.

more authentic

Similar to "more genuine", emphasizing originality and true nature.

more significant

Highlights the importance and impact of something.

more considered

Implies careful deliberation and avoidance of hasty judgment.

more in-depth

Focuses on a thorough and detailed examination.

FAQs

How can I use "less superficial" in a sentence?

You can use "less superficial" to describe something that is deeper, more thoughtful, or more meaningful than something else. For example: "The analysis provided a "less superficial" understanding of the topic."

What are some alternatives to saying "less superficial"?

Alternatives to "less superficial" include phrases like "more profound", "more meaningful", or "more authentic", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less superficial"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "less superficial". It is a comparative form, indicating a lower degree of superficiality.

What is the difference between "superficial" and "less superficial"?

"Superficial" describes something that is shallow and lacks depth, while "less superficial" implies a movement away from shallowness towards greater depth or thoughtfulness.