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surface-level knowledge

[/ˈsɜːrfɪs ˈlevəl ˈnɒlɪdʒ/]
noun
conhecimento superficial
1. Understanding or familiarity with a subject that is limited to basic facts or general information without depth, detail, or comprehensive understanding
He only has surface-level knowledge of quantum physics and cannot explain the complex theories.
Ele só tem conhecimento superficial de física quântica e não consegue explicar as teorias complexas.
2. Information acquired without thorough study, investigation, or critical analysis
The report provides only surface-level knowledge of the economic crisis.
O relatório fornece apenas conhecimento superficial da crise econômica.
NYC Slang
quick and dirty knowledge; knowing just enough to fake it
Synonyms
superficial knowledgecursory knowledgeshallow understandingbasic familiarityrudimentary knowledge
Antonyms
deep knowledgeexpert knowledgecomprehensive understandingin-depth knowledgemastery

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
conhecimento superficial
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
conhecimento de superficie
Less formal variant sometimes used colloquially
São Paulo
conhecimento superficial
Standard usage, same as general Brazilian
Portugal
conhecimento superficial
Same term used in European Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

scratching the surface
dipping your toes in
knowing something by heart without understanding
getting your feet wet
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