surface need
[/ˈsɜːrfɪs niːd/]
nounpl: surface needs
necessidade superficial
1. A basic or apparent requirement that is visible on the surface but may not address the root cause or underlying issue
The surface need was for more staff, but the real problem was poor management.
A necessidade superficial era contratar mais funcionários, mas o problema real era a má gestão.
2. In psychology and management, the obvious or stated need that may conceal deeper psychological or organizational issues
Addressing only surface needs won't solve the customer's dissatisfaction.
Atender apenas às necessidades superficiais não resolverá a insatisfação do cliente.
3. A requirement that appears urgent but lacks substantial importance when examined more deeply
We must distinguish between surface needs and genuine priorities in our budget planning.
Devemos distinguir entre necessidades superficiais e prioridades genuínas no planejamento orçamentário.
This concept is widely used in Brazilian business culture, particularly in organizational development and customer service training. It reflects the importance of understanding context and looking beyond immediate requests to solve problems more effectively. In the USA, the phrase is common in psychology, coaching, and management literature.
NYC Slang
surface-level want; fake need; vanity requirement
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