skin-deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "skin-deep" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is superficial or only on the surface, often in reference to beauty or character. Example: "Her beauty may be skin-deep, but her kindness and intelligence are what truly matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Skin-deep still counts?

The New York Times

My interest was skin-deep.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet changes are mainly skin-deep.

The Economist

It is skin-deep and utterly plausible.

The New York Times - Arts

Maybe Megan's bravado was always skin-deep.

The New Yorker

I think politics should be more than skin-deep.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Skin Deep.

The New York Times

Skin deep.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Is beauty skin deep then?

The Guardian - Music

But such things are only skin deep.

The Guardian - Books

This taboo is only skin deep.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "skin-deep" to describe qualities or changes that are only superficial and don't affect the core nature of something. For instance, a political reform might be described as "skin-deep" if it doesn't address fundamental issues.

Common error

Avoid limiting "skin-deep" solely to appearance. It can describe superficial changes in systems, ideas, or relationships too. Don't only think about looks; think about depth of meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "skin-deep" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something as superficial or lacking depth. Ludwig AI confirms its typical usage in describing superficial qualities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "skin-deep" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something superficial or lacking depth. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is frequently used in news and media to critique or downplay the significance of surface-level qualities. When writing, remember that while commonly used to describe physical appearance, it applies to changes, ideas, and relationships too. Alternatives include "superficial", "shallow", and "surface-level". Employ it to add nuance when highlighting the absence of depth or substance. Its frequent use in reliable sources underscores its acceptance and utility in diverse writing contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superficial

Implies a lack of depth or thoroughness; a general synonym.

shallow

Suggests a lack of intellectual or emotional depth, more negative connotation than "skin-deep".

surface-level

Focuses on the absence of deeper analysis or understanding.

only apparent

Highlights that something seems real but isn't.

cosmetic

Implies an improvement or alteration of appearance only.

on the surface

Indicates that something is not as simple as it seems.

frivolous

Suggests a lack of seriousness or importance.

insubstantial

Implies a lack of significance or solidity.

fleeting

Suggests something that lasts only a short time and is not important.

cursory

Indicates a hasty and not detailed examination.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "skin-deep" in a sentence?

You can use "skin-deep" to describe something that is superficial or only on the surface. For example, "The changes to the company were only "skin-deep"; the fundamental issues remained."

What are some alternatives to saying "skin-deep"?

Alternatives to "skin-deep" include "superficial", "shallow", or "surface-level". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "only skin-deep"?

Yes, saying something is "only skin-deep" is a correct and common usage. It emphasizes the superficial nature of whatever you are describing.

What does it mean when someone says "beauty is only skin-deep"?

The expression "beauty is only "skin-deep"" means that physical attractiveness is not as important as inner qualities like kindness, intelligence, and character.