1.
on the surface; outwardly; ostensibly; superficially
Describes how something appears externally, with the implication that the reality underneath may be different. Used to contrast appearances with truth.
表面上は穏やかだった。
On the surface, things were calm.
二人は表面上仲がいいが、実は対立している。
The two seem to get along on the surface, but in reality they are at odds.
表面上は賛成しているように見えるが、本心では反対しているのだろう。
They appear to agree on the surface, but deep down they probably oppose it.
USAGE:
Almost always implies a contrast between what is seen and what is real. Frequently paired with contrasting expressions like 実は (in reality), 本当は (actually), or 裏では (behind the scenes).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 表面上は〜だが、実は〜 (on the surface it's ~, but actually ~)
- 表面上〜に見える (appears ~ on the surface)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 見かけ上: in appearance — similar but slightly more casual
- 一見: at first glance — focuses on initial impression
- 外見上: in outward appearance — more formal