of superficial value

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of superficial value" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has little depth or significance, often in a critical context. Example: "The decorations at the event were of superficial value, lacking any real meaning or connection to the theme."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But the formula for showbiz reporting has to change, moving away from clumsy and misleading stereotypes of the lifestyles of the rich and famous that portray celebrity as a commodity that is of superficial value.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The institutions that are responsible for exposing the public to art are dependent on the minuscule but wealthiest segment of society for support, a fact that has inescapably has reduced art to a reflection of their superficial values -- conformity, fashion, wealth, status and power.

The New York Times

That they do so replicating the fate of Hawthorne's hapless heroine is testimony to the superficial values of our culture, our misguided notions of both perfection and health, and our failure to learn from the follies of history.

Huffington Post

Either this process participates in the realization of the deeper, spiritual values, or it is a movement toward bestialization, a realization of the more shallow and superficial values.

SEP

In her early years of stardom, Stanwyck routinely denounced Hollywood's superficial values and identified herself as a homebody.

The New York Times - Books

You can message, exchange photos and videos, and rate the "hotness" of other users (encouraging your kid to engage in superficial values at best).

Huffington Post

Mr. Kiesler was evidently no fan of mid-1960's culture, since the various elements of "Us, You, Me" depict a society ruled by negative forces and superficial values.

The New York Times

The workers' representation is more fundamental, because the basic laws of economics and history are expressed in terms of the struggle over the appropriation of surplus (use-) value, not in terms of superficial money (exchange) values.

SEP

Detailed studies on the gas holdup and liquid circulation velocity have been carried out with respect to various values of superficial gas as well as liquid velocities.

Chemical Engineering Science

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations at higher values of superficial liquid velocity showed liquid bubbles confirming the transition to heterogeneous regime.

Chemical Engineering Science

Recent studies have shown that considering the values of superficial mass (Ms) and periodic thermal transmittance (Ymn) of external walls is not sufficient to achieve energy savings, particularly in summer.

Energy and Buildings

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "of superficial value" to critically assess elements or concepts that lack meaningful depth or lasting impact.

Common error

Avoid using "of superficial value" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to convey the specific deficiency you are addressing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of superficial value" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that the noun lacks significant depth or importance. As Ludwig AI states, it describes something with little depth or significance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "of superficial value" is used to denote a lack of depth or importance, often in a critical context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While it appears most frequently in News & Media sources, and Scientific writings, it is advisable to choose more precise language in formal or academic contexts. Alternatives such as "lacking depth" or "having little significance" can often provide a clearer or more nuanced expression of the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking depth

Focuses on the absence of profoundness or complexity.

having little significance

Emphasizes the lack of importance or consequence.

not very important

A straightforward way to express a lack of importance.

of minor consequence

Highlights the minimal impact or effect.

without substance

Stresses the absence of any real content or foundation.

shallow

A single-word adjective conveying a lack of depth.

trivial

Indicates something is unimportant or frivolous.

insignificant

Highlights the negligible nature of something.

of little worth

Focuses on the lack of inherent value or merit.

unimportant

Simply states that something is not important.

FAQs

How can I use "of superficial value" in a sentence?

You can use "of superficial value" to describe something that lacks depth or real importance. For example, "The critic argued that the movie's plot was entertaining but ultimately "of superficial value".".

What's a more formal alternative to "of superficial value"?

In a formal setting, consider using phrases like "lacking in substance", "devoid of significant merit", or "possessing limited intrinsic worth" instead of "of superficial value".

Is it correct to say something is "of superficial value", or should I use a different construction?

The phrase "of superficial value" is grammatically correct and widely understood. Other options include "lacks significant value" or "holds little intrinsic worth".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "of superficial value"?

Use "of superficial value" when you want to express that something has little depth, significance, or lasting impact, especially in comparison to something with more intrinsic merit. You can replace it with more direct alternatives like "lacking depth" or "having little significance".