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Showing results for on the surface. Search instead for dirtiest surface.
Synonyms

on the surface

Idioms  

  1. Superficially, to all outward appearances, as in On the surface he appeared brave and patriotic, but his troops knew better. [Early 1700s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The UVA radiation in a tanning bed is roughly 15 times that found anywhere on the surface of the planet.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

“Although these funds may appear ‘bond-like’ on the surface due to their relatively high distribution rates, they own a basket of stocks,” the Stifel analysts said.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

And Russell explained that the decision was more complicated than it appears on the surface.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

It’s a real business need, sure, and it’s not a horrible idea on the surface.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

Despite everything, I still marvel at how all those tiny ripples in the water can catch the sunlight and make the river shimmer like a million jewels were strewn on the surface.

From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.