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superficial competency

[ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl kəmˈpiːtənsi]
nounpl: superficial competencies
competência superficial
1. A basic or shallow level of skill or knowledge in a particular area; ability to perform tasks at a minimal level without deep understanding or mastery
His superficial competency in Spanish allowed him to order food at a restaurant, but he couldn't hold a meaningful conversation.
Sua competência superficial em espanhol permitiu que ele pedisse comida em um restaurante, mas ele não conseguia manter uma conversa significativa.
2. The appearance of capability without substantive expertise or thorough knowledge
The software developer demonstrated only superficial competency with the new framework, struggling with advanced features.
O desenvolvedor de software demonstrou apenas competência superficial com o novo framework, tendo dificuldades com recursos avançados.
NYC Slang
half-stepping; fake it till you make it mentality
Synonyms
surface-level skillshallow competencebasic proficiencyminimal expertisecursory knowledge
Antonyms
deep expertisemasteryprofound competencythorough knowledgeadvanced proficiency

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
competência superficial
Standard usage throughout Brazil
São Paulo
competência superficial
Commonly used in business and educational contexts
Portugal
competência superficial
Standard European Portuguese usage; may also use 'capacidade superficial'

Related Idioms & Phrases

scratch the surface
skin-deep knowledge
jack of all trades, master of none
knowing a little bit about a lot
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