superficial communication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "superficial communication" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to communication that is only on the surface level and lacks depth or substance. Example: The meeting was filled with superficial communication, as no one delved into the real issues at hand.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Frau von Stein suffered a kind of nervous collapse, and all but the most superficial communication between her and Goethe ceased.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Overlooking the cultural differences and using general words to express objects in one language will restrict the power of the language and make the communication superficial.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

This results in superficial and inadequate initial communication and primary assessments between caregiver and recipient [ 6].

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

They also described situations when communication was superficial, yet they sensed that the patients had problems they did not want to talk about.

BMC Medical Education

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

If you saturate your children with superficial language, they will edit their communication away from authenticity.

Huffington Post

Health communication based on a superficial population-wide approach (20) is the most commonly employed approach for disease prevention and control (17).

Global Health Action

A core thalamic system of PV+ neurons acts as a relay, and a CB+ matrix appears to be engaged in intrathalamic corticocortical communication through widespread projections to superficial cortical layers [19].

Plosone

In fact, intercellular gap junctional communication has been demonstrated among chondrocytes of the superficial layer of articular cartilage in vivo[ 14].

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

We found that physicians' communication with patients about adherence was often awkward and superficial, even when physicians tried to create a friendly atmosphere.

BMC Health Services Research

The key to breaking down superficial barriers and impossible expectations for ourselves is by opening the lines of communication and creating safe spaces for women to ask for help if they need it.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex issues, avoid "superficial communication" by providing detailed explanations and supporting evidence to ensure clarity and understanding.

Common error

Avoid assuming that your audience automatically grasps the underlying issues. Combat potential "superficial communication" by explicitly stating assumptions and providing sufficient context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "superficial communication" functions as a descriptive term, indicating a lack of depth, substance, or meaningful engagement in the exchange of information. It highlights that the communication remains on a surface level, without addressing underlying issues or fostering genuine understanding. According to Ludwig, this is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "superficial communication" describes interactions lacking depth and substance. Ludwig confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for use. While common across various contexts like Science, News & Media and Encyclopedias, it's crucial to avoid superficiality in important discussions by providing detailed explanations and sufficient context. Related phrases include "shallow dialogue", "insubstantial interaction", and "surface-level discussion". Avoiding assumptions about audience understanding is vital to prevent communication from becoming merely superficial. The analysis demonstrates the phrase's role in critiquing interactions and its overall acceptance in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shallow dialogue

Replaces "communication" with "dialogue", emphasizing a lack of depth in the exchange.

surface-level discussion

Uses "surface-level" to describe the discussion, indicating a lack of in-depth analysis.

insubstantial interaction

Replaces both adjectives and noun, highlighting the lack of significant content in the interaction.

cursory exchange

Emphasizes the brevity and lack of thoroughness in the exchange.

skin-deep exchange

Expresses that the exchange does not go beyond the exterior.

perfunctory conversation

Highlights the routine and unenthusiastic nature of the conversation.

meaningless exchange

Uses "meaningless" as a stronger way to express that nothing is being communicated.

trivial discourse

Indicates that the communication is unimportant and lacks seriousness.

empty rhetoric

Focuses on the use of language that is persuasive but lacks sincere content.

frivolous exchange of words

Adds emphasis to the meaninglessness of the communication

FAQs

How can I avoid having "superficial communication" in a conversation?

To avoid "superficial communication", actively listen, ask clarifying questions, and delve deeper into topics rather than staying on the surface. Show genuine interest and seek to understand different perspectives.

What does "superficial communication" imply about a relationship?

If communication remains superficial, it suggests a lack of trust, vulnerability, or genuine connection between individuals. Building deeper rapport requires more than just surface-level exchanges.

Are there contexts where "superficial communication" is acceptable?

In casual social settings or initial interactions, "superficial communication" can be acceptable and even necessary to establish a comfortable environment. However, it's important to gauge when it's appropriate to transition to deeper conversations.

What are some signs of "shallow dialogue", indicating "superficial communication"?

Signs include a focus on trivial topics, a lack of emotional depth, avoidance of sensitive subjects, and a general sense that the conversation is not meaningful or engaging beyond the surface.