superficial feature
[ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃəl ˈfiːtʃər]
nounpl: superficial features
característica superficial
1. A noticeable or distinctive quality that exists only on the surface or outer level; lacks depth or substance
The car's superficial features like chrome trim appeal to buyers, but the engine has serious problems.
As características superficiais do carro, como o acabamento cromado, atraem os compradores, mas o motor tem sérios problemas.
2. In linguistics or semiotics, a surface-level characteristic of language or design that is immediately visible but does not reveal underlying structure or meaning
The superficial features of the two languages appear similar, but their grammatical systems are completely different.
As características superficiais das duas línguas parecem similares, mas seus sistemas gramaticais são completamente diferentes.
3. A trait or quality that appears important but lacks real substance or practical value
Don't judge the candidate based on superficial features like appearance; focus on their qualifications.
Não julgue o candidato por características superficiais como aparência; concentre-se nas qualificações.
In both Brazilian and American English contexts, the phrase 'superficial feature' is commonly used in academic, technical, and casual discourse to distinguish between what is immediately visible and what requires deeper analysis. In Brazilian Portuguese business culture, there's an emphasis on 'ir além da superfície' (going beyond the surface) when evaluating products, people, or ideas. The term reflects a cultural value placed on substance over appearance.
NYC Slang
surface-level thing / skin-deep feature
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