On the surface
adverb
Based on a quick look or judgement.
On the surface, he looks like a successful businessman but he is actually in debt.
Often appears as...
- appear on the surface
- on the surface level
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverb
Presenting or existing at the outer or top layer of something.
The first aid kit was packed, and all the essentials were kept on the surface for easy access.
Often appears as...
- lie on the surface
- on the surface of the water
adverb
Based on a quick look or judgement.
On the surface, he looks like a successful businessman but he is actually in debt.
Often appears as...
- appear on the surface
- on the surface level
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverb
Presenting or existing at the outer or top layer of something.
The first aid kit was packed, and all the essentials were kept on the surface for easy access.
Often appears as...
- lie on the surface
- on the surface of the water
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Misleading Appearances
The phrase suggests that the initial impression might hide the truth or deeper realities.
He seemed happy on the surface, but was actually struggling.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Judgement
Indicates a superficial assessment not based on detailed analysis.
On the surface, the problem looked simple.
Pro Tip 3/3Deceptive Simplicity
Something might look straightforward at first glance but could be complex underneath.
The plan looks good on the surface.
Pro Tip 1/3Misleading Appearances
The phrase suggests that the initial impression might hide the truth or deeper realities.
He seemed happy on the surface, but was actually struggling.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Judgement
Indicates a superficial assessment not based on detailed analysis.
On the surface, the problem looked simple.
Pro Tip 3/3Deceptive Simplicity
Something might look straightforward at first glance but could be complex underneath.
The plan looks good on the surface.
Pro Tip 1/3Misleading Appearances
The phrase suggests that the initial impression might hide the truth or deeper realities.
He seemed happy on the surface, but was actually struggling.
Pro Tip 2/3Quick Judgement
Indicates a superficial assessment not based on detailed analysis.
On the surface, the problem looked simple.
Pro Tip 3/3Deceptive Simplicity
Something might look straightforward at first glance but could be complex underneath.
The plan looks good on the surface.
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