superficial knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "superficial knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limited or shallow understanding of a subject or topic. Example: "While he has a superficial knowledge of the subject, he struggles to engage in deeper discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Education

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

I have only a superficial knowledge of Keynes's economic theory, but as the biographer of his wife, Lydia Lopokova, I do know about his marriage.

The Guardian

Too often, he writes, historians have a superficial knowledge of the Bible, and scholars of religion have a limited knowledge of Southern culture.

The New York Times - Arts

Despite having a superficial knowledge of the ingredients and the technique, I have no idea how to make my father's pulao, nor would I ever dare attempt it.

The New Yorker

"A lot of people have superficial knowledge of social sciences and they don't take up the more interesting, innovative and important findings and use them in a systematic way," she said.

The Guardian

There have been high-profile cases concerning gender, race and sexual orientation in recent weeks, and the most superficial knowledge of any of them is all that is required to dismiss calls for special treatment in cases involving faith.

The Guardian

In fact, his arguments are familiar to anyone with a superficial knowledge of the subject, and there are dozens of good, well-researched books, including an extensive list by James L. Gould and Carol Grant Gould.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Findings reveal that the study population had superficial knowledge on different aspects of malaria and its transmission, which may be inadequate to take preventive actions.

Plosone

Conversely, the majority get at least a 'good pass' – grade C – by showing merely a superficial knowledge on a wide range of issues, but no understanding of the fundamentals.

The Guardian

Findings reveal that the study population had superficial knowledge on malaria and its transmission, including the use and maintenance of LLINs.

Plosone

In a Marxist vein, some standpoint theorists argue that certain perspectives are epistemically privileged in the realm of science: viz., subjugated perspectives are epistemically privileged in comparison to dominant ones in light of the deeper insight afforded the former (just as the proletariat has a deeper knowledge of human potential than the superficial knowledge typical of those in power).

SEP

The aim of this study was to use a small number of case study sites to develop detailed knowledge of the pharmacy's implementation of MURs and patient experience rather than more superficial knowledge involving a larger number of pharmacy sites.

BMC Family Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing the phrase in close proximity within your writing. Opt for synonyms to enhance readability.

Common error

Do not assume someone with "superficial knowledge of" a topic is capable of handling complex tasks related to it. Assess their actual skills to avoid errors and inefficiencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "superficial knowledge of" functions as an adjectival modifier describing the extent or depth of understanding. It suggests that someone has a limited or surface-level comprehension of a particular subject, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Books

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "superficial knowledge of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a limited or surface-level understanding of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively conveys a lack of depth or comprehensive insight. It appears most frequently in news and media, scientific publications, and books, indicating its broad applicability across various contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context by specifying the areas in which knowledge is lacking. Alternatives such as "basic understanding of" or "shallow understanding of" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shallow understanding of

Directly contrasts with a deep or thorough comprehension.

surface-level comprehension of

Directly indicates the lack of depth in understanding.

cursory knowledge of

Suggests a hasty and incomplete understanding.

basic understanding of

Focuses on the fundamental aspects known, rather than the lack of depth.

limited awareness of

Highlights the restricted scope of understanding.

minimal insight into

Focuses on the limited depth of understanding.

passing acquaintance with

Implies a casual and brief exposure to the subject.

rudimentary grasp of

Emphasizes the elementary nature of the comprehension.

general familiarity with

Highlights a common but not necessarily thorough understanding.

nodding acquaintance with

Signifies a very slight or almost non-existent familiarity.

FAQs

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

You can use "superficial knowledge of" to indicate a lack of deep understanding. For example, "He has a "superficial knowledge of" the subject, but lacks practical experience".

What are some alternatives to "superficial knowledge of"?

Alternatives include "basic understanding of", "limited awareness of", or "shallow understanding of" depending on the context.

What does it mean to have a "superficial knowledge of" something?

Having a "superficial knowledge of" something means you have a basic or surface-level understanding without deep insight or expertise.

How does "superficial knowledge of" differ from "deep understanding of"?

"Superficial knowledge of" implies a lack of thoroughness and detail, whereas "deep understanding of" indicates comprehensive and profound comprehension.