being at, on, or near the surface

a superficial wound.

of or pertaining to the surface

superficial measurement.

external or outward

a superficial resemblance.

concerned with or comprehending only what is on the surface or obvious

a superficial observer.

shallow; not profound or thorough

a superficial writer.

apparent rather than real.

insubstantial or insignificant

superficial improvements.

adverb

carefully , deeply , thoroughly

adverb

apparently , at first glance , carelessly , casually , externally , extraneously , flimsily , frivolously , hastily , ignorantly , not profoundly , not thoroughly , once over lightly , on the surface , ostensibly , outwardly , partially , skim , to the casual eye , evidently , ostensively , seemingly