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surface competency

[/ˈsɜːrfɪs ˈkɒmpɪtənsi/]
nounpl: surface competencies
competência superficial
1. A basic or shallow level of skill or knowledge in a particular area, acquired without deep understanding or mastery
His surface competency in Spanish allowed him to order food at restaurants, but he couldn't hold a complex conversation.
Sua competência superficial em espanhol lhe permitia pedir comida nos restaurantes, mas ele não conseguia manter uma conversa complexa.
2. The ability to perform fundamental tasks in a field while lacking comprehensive expertise or theoretical understanding
The new employee demonstrated surface competency with the software but needed training for advanced functions.
O novo funcionário demonstrou competência superficial com o software, mas precisava de treinamento para funções avançadas.
NYC Slang
half-knowing something; having just enough skills to get by
Synonyms
basic competencyshallow competencyminimal proficiencyrudimentary skillsurface-level knowledge
Antonyms
deep competencymasteryexpertiseproficiencycomprehensive knowledge

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
competência superficial
Standard usage across Brazil
São Paulo
competência superficial
Commonly used in business and educational contexts
Portugal
competência superficial
Used in formal and technical contexts

Related Idioms & Phrases

scratching the surface
learn the ropes
jack of all trades, master of none
dip one's toes into
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