1. In linguistics, the surface form of a sentence as it appears in speech or writing, as opposed to its underlying logical form (deep structure)
The superficial structure of the sentence does not reveal its complex underlying meaning.
A estrutura superficial da sentença não revela seu significado subjacente complexo.
2. In general usage, the outer or visible arrangement of something, lacking depth or detail
The architect focused on the superficial structure rather than the building's internal systems.
O arquiteto se concentrou na estrutura superficial em vez dos sistemas internos do edifício.