shallowly
Definition
Adverb: In a manner that lacks depth, seriousness, or thoroughness; superficially.
Usage
The adverb "shallowly" describes how an action is performed with insufficient depth, penetration, or consideration. It is used to modify verbs, indicating that the action is done only on or near the surface, or without deep thought or feeling.
Examples
- The diver breathed shallowly through the narrow snorkel. (Describes the manner of breathing as not taking deep breaths.)
- The knife cut shallowly into the wood, leaving only a surface scratch. (Describes the manner of cutting as not penetrating deeply.)
- He thought shallowly about the complex problem, missing its deeper implications. (Describes the manner of thinking as superficial.)
- The documentary only shallowly explored the historical causes of the conflict. (Describes the manner of exploring as not thorough or in-depth.)
Advanced Usage
- "To engage shallowly": To participate in or think about something without real commitment or depth of understanding.
- She realized she had been engaging shallowly with her studies and resolved to change.
- "To live shallowly": To live a life focused on superficial concerns rather than profound meaning or relationships. (This is a more figurative use.)
- The character in the novel lived shallowly, concerned only with wealth and appearances.
Variants and Related Words
- Shallow (adjective): Of little depth; not showing serious or careful thought.
- a shallow pond; a shallow analysis.
- Shallowness (noun): The quality or state of being shallow.
- The shallowness of the conversation was frustrating.
Synonyms
- Superficially
- Lightly
- Skimmingly
- Curtly (in some contexts, e.g., a shallow, brief reply)
Antonyms
- Deeply
- Profoundly
- Thoroughly
- Intensely
Related Phrases
- To scratch the surface: To deal with or investigate only the superficial aspects of something. This idiom is conceptually related to doing something "shallowly."
- Our research has only scratched the surface of this phenomenon.
Adverb
-
in a shallow manner
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