on a surface level

USAGE SUMMARY

"on a surface level" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is superficial or only apparent without fully understanding it. Example: On a surface level, the argument seems compelling, but it does not hold up to more thorough scrutiny.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

A HOUSE divided, two self-described families laying claim to the honored legacy of one: on a surface level, the competing arrivals of the Bleecker Street Opera and the Amore Opera could be the stuff of a libretto.

The New York Times - Arts

It's entirely possible to appreciate the first episode of the show on a surface level: The pilot (which is the only one ABC has released to the media) is a polished, entertaining and promising half-hour of comedy about a well-to-do American family.

Huffington Post

Sometimes people just read it on a surface level.

The New Yorker

It looks like that on a surface level, but I think I don't sell against weaknesses.

The Guardian

On a surface level, those who backed Clinton did so largely out of a combination of familiarity and fatalism.

The New York Times - Magazine

"If you maybe just listen to it on a surface level, it's like: 'Oh, there's the reggaeton song and then there's the punk song,'" Jaar says.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

But he is kind of aware of it, but only on kind of a surface level.

BMJ Open

Happy Couple confronts the way we're trained as a culture to view images of this nature, focusing on a surface-level reading of the works; never questioning and always idealizing this form of intimacy.

Vice

MW2 A relationship and dialogue with a woman with limited Swedish skills was more likely to remain on a surface-level with less room for individuality and deeper reflections than with a patient fluent in Swedish.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

"There was a guy I wanted to ask out, and I think on a completely surface level the Getty made me seem cool," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

On a purely surface level, Guillermo del Toro's Pacific Rim delivers exactly what it advertises.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "on a surface level" with a contrasting statement that reveals a more nuanced or contradictory reality to add depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "on a surface level" to express personal opinions without factual backing. Instead, ensure your initial observations are grounded in evidence, even if incomplete, to maintain credibility. The phrase describes the depth of analysis, not the validity of the assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a surface level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that the observation or analysis being presented is only a preliminary or superficial one. It sets a context for further exploration or deeper understanding, as also suggested by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a surface level" is a common prepositional phrase used to introduce a preliminary or superficial observation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts to set the stage for deeper analysis. While offering initial insights, it prompts further exploration and nuanced understanding. When incorporating it into your writing, it is important to avoid overuse and factual subjectivity. For alternative phrases, you can use "at first glance", "superficially speaking", or "on the face of it".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the face of it

Indicates that something seems a certain way based on initial observation, but may not be the whole truth.

at first glance

Highlights the initial impression or appearance of something.

just scratching the surface

Emphasizes that only a small part of the issue has been explored.

superficially speaking

Focuses on the superficial aspect of the statement, highlighting that the analysis doesn't delve deep.

without deeper analysis

Directly points out the absence of a more thorough investigation.

from a cursory examination

Emphasizes that the understanding is based on a quick, initial look.

by outward appearances

Highlights that the judgement is based on what can be seen externally.

in a simplified manner

Suggests that the explanation or understanding has been made simpler, possibly omitting details.

in a perfunctory way

Implies that something is done without much care or attention to detail.

taking a broad view

Suggests considering things in general without specific detail

FAQs

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

You can use "on a surface level" to indicate an initial or superficial understanding of something before delving into deeper analysis. For example, "On a surface level, the proposal seems beneficial, but a closer look reveals potential risks."

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

Alternatives include "at first glance", "superficially speaking", or "on the face of it". Each emphasizes a lack of deep examination but with slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to use "on a surface level" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially when you intend to contrast a superficial understanding with a more in-depth analysis. It signals to the reader that you are aware of the initial impression but plan to explore the topic further. Other alternatives can be from a cursory examination

What's the difference between "on a surface level" and "superficially"?

"On a surface level" often implies a deliberate choice to not delve deeply, while "superficially" can suggest a lack of thoroughness or understanding. Consider if you're highlighting a starting point or criticizing a lack of depth. Check other options like "without deeper analysis" or "just scratching the surface".