ON THE SURFACE Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

on the surface

phrase

Definition of on the surface

as in seemingly

to all outward appearances On the surface they seem to have a fairytale marriage, but those close to them know it isn't so simple.

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of on the surface Heather Boyd had spent years building a life that looked, on the surface, like classic suburban success — a husband, four children and a promising career. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 23 Aug. 2026 The agency plans to land astronauts on the surface of the moon aboard a Starship lunar landing vehicle on the Artemis IV mission in late 2028. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 21 Aug. 2026 The turnover was the lowlight of what, on the surface, looked to be a lackluster second outing for Mendoza. — Sam Warren, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Let harden overnight and wrap with plastic before giving away, to keep the glycerin from beading on the surface. — Jodi Levine, Parents, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the surface

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“On the surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20the%20surface. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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