The word “shallow” refers to something that lacks depth, whether physically, intellectually, or emotionally. Physically, it describes bodies of water or objects that are not deep, like a shallow pool where the water barely reaches the knees. Intellectually, shallow thinking or analysis suggests a lack of careful consideration, focusing only on surface-level ideas. Emotionally, shallow relationships or people fail to exhibit depth, sincerity, or meaningful connection. For example, a shallow conversation may revolve around trivial topics, avoiding deeper or personal issues. Similarly, someone who judges others based on appearance may be seen as shallow. In literature, shallow characters lack complexity and development, making them less engaging. The term also extends to behavior, such as when someone displays shallow values, prioritizing superficial aspects of life over substance. Whether used literally or figuratively, the word shallow often implies something incomplete, superficial, or insubstantial, contrasting with things that carry depth, meaning, and significance.
Sample Sentences
- The children splashed around in the shallow end of the pool.
- Her understanding of the topic was shallow and lacked critical depth.
- He was accused of being shallow for valuing appearances over personality.
- The river was so shallow that we could wade across it without swimming.
- The conversation was shallow, focusing only on small talk instead of deeper topics.
- The movie received criticism for its shallow characters and predictable storyline.
- His shallow breathing worried the doctor, as it indicated a potential lung issue.
- Their friendship was shallow, built on convenience rather than true connection.
- She avoided shallow relationships, preferring meaningful and genuine connections.
- The shallow soil in the garden made it difficult for plants to grow deep roots.
Synonyms for “Shallow”
- Superficial
- Surface-level
- Trivial
- Empty
- Frivolous
- Insignificant
- Skin-deep
- Hollow
- Narrow
- Flimsy
Antonyms for “Shallow”
- Deep
- Profound
- Substantial
- Meaningful
- Thoughtful
- Thorough
- Significant
- Insightful
- Complex
- Solid
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Superficial
- Surface
- Empty
- Insincere
- Flimsy
- Trivial
- Lightweight
- Frivolous
- Hollow
- Incomplete
Phrasal Verbs:
- Skim over (to address something in a shallow or superficial way)
- Brush off (to dismiss something without deep thought)
- Gloss over (to superficially address an issue without detail)
- Dip into (to briefly explore a subject without going deep)
- Look past (to focus beyond something superficial or shallow)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Scratch the surface (to deal with something in a superficial manner)
- Judging a book by its cover (making shallow judgments based on appearance)
- All that glitters is not gold (appearances can be shallow and deceptive)
- Lip service (superficial or shallow support without real action)
- A mile wide and an inch deep (something extensive but shallow in substance)
