1.
superficial; surface-level; outward; on the surface
Pertaining only to the surface or appearance, without touching on the deeper substance or reality. Often carries a negative connotation, suggesting something lacks depth.
表面的な理解にとどまる。
To remain at a superficial understanding.
彼の謝罪は表面的なものに過ぎなかった。
His apology was nothing more than superficial.
表面的には穏やかだが、内面では葛藤を抱えている。
On the surface things seem calm, but inside there is inner conflict.
A na-adjective formed from 表面 (surface) + 的 (adjectival suffix). Used adverbially as 表面的に (superficially, on the surface). Common collocations: 表面的な理解 (superficial understanding), 表面的な付き合い (superficial relationship), 表面的には (on the surface). Often contrasted with 本質的 (essential/fundamental) or 根本的 (fundamental).