on a superficial level

USAGE SUMMARY

"on a superficial level" is a perfectly valid phrase that is used often in written English.
It is generally used to indicate that conclusions or evaluations were made based on a cursory examination of the evidence. For example: "On a superficial level, the defendant appears to be guilty of the crime, but further examination of the evidence may reveal a different conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is to do on a superficial level (and superficies matter in this text) with the possibility in Tsarist Russia of owning "souls", which is how the ownership of serfs is described.

The Guardian - Books

The lack of women running for top EU positions is outrageous only on a superficial level, for one big reason.

The Economist

"I've learned over the years that some people can be very shy, stand in the back of class, and on a superficial level, it seems they're not as interested as the one pushing herself to the front row.

The New York Times - Arts

As an Argentine living in NY there is one social norm in particular that stands out: the lack of open communication on a superficial level.

Huffington Post

On a superficial level, electing an African-American to the RNC chair is positive.

The Guardian - Opinion

"If you were to ask me on a superficial level, I prefer birds to mammals.

The Guardian

So they live on a superficial level in which Jews are symbols of something, but not people".

The New York Times

On a superficial level, the fault lies with the current European leadership, their addiction to inadequate patches and fudges.

The New York Times

At least on a superficial level, these cairns are reminiscent of the piles of stones archaeologists have uncovered at our own ancestral sites.

The Guardian

Israeli shoppers and sightseers are prevalent among the weekend day-trippers, and – on a superficial level – the town appears happy to welcome all and sundry.

The Guardian - Opinion

It points to what might be called festivalist collecting: the acquisition of large, crowd-pleasing artworks that are entertaining and irresistible on a superficial level.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a superficial level", ensure that you follow up with a contrasting perspective or a more detailed examination to avoid leaving the reader with an incomplete impression.

Common error

Avoid using "on a superficial level" without providing a deeper analysis or contrasting perspective. Failing to do so can leave your argument underdeveloped and unconvincing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a superficial level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the scope or depth of an observation or analysis. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid phrase. Examples in Ludwig show it often introduces a preliminary or surface-level perspective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a superficial level" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a preliminary observation or understanding. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves as an adverbial phrase to qualify a statement, indicating that it's based on limited analysis. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as some scientific contexts. When using this phrase, remember to follow it up with a more in-depth analysis or a contrasting perspective to avoid presenting an incomplete picture. Consider alternatives like "at first glance" or "on the surface" for similar meanings. Mastering this phrase will enhance your ability to convey nuanced perspectives in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the surface

Highlights that the information or understanding is limited to what is immediately apparent.

on the face of it

Similar to "on the surface" but can imply a degree of skepticism.

at face value

Implies accepting something as it appears without deeper analysis.

at first glance

Emphasizes the initial impression or appearance of something.

by all appearances

Focuses on how things seem based on observation.

on initial inspection

Emphasizes the beginning stage of an examination.

from a cursory examination

Indicates a brief and not very thorough investigation.

from a brief overview

Highlights that only a quick look was taken.

without deep analysis

Directly states the absence of thorough investigation.

in a perfunctory manner

Suggests something is done routinely and with little interest or care.

FAQs

How can I use "on a superficial level" in a sentence?

You can use "on a superficial level" to indicate that you are presenting an initial or surface-level observation. For example, "On a superficial level, the project seems successful, but a closer look reveals several challenges."

What are some alternatives to "on a superficial level"?

Alternatives include "at first glance", "on the surface", or "at face value", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "on a superficial level" or "at a superficial level"?

"On a superficial level" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "At a superficial level" is less frequently used and may sound slightly awkward to native English speakers.

What does it mean to analyze something "on a superficial level"?

Analyzing something "on a superficial level" means examining it briefly or only considering the most obvious aspects, without delving into deeper or more complex details. It implies that a more thorough analysis could reveal additional insights.