adjective

excited

excited [adjective]

feeling very happy and enthusiastic

US /ɪkˈsaɪ.t̬ɪd/ 
UK /ɪkˈsaɪ.tɪd/ 
Example: 

Are you getting excited about your holiday?

Oxford Essential Dictionary

excited

 adjective
not calm, for example because you are happy about something that is going to happen:
He's getting very excited about his holiday.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

excited

excited /ɪkˈsaɪtəd, ɪkˈsaɪtɪd/ BrE AmE adjective
[Word Family: adjective: ↑excitable, ↑excited, ↑exciting ≠ ↑unexciting, ↑excitable; noun: ↑excitement, ↑excitability; adverb: ↑excitedly, ↑excitingly; verb: ↑excite]
1. happy, interested, or hopeful because something good has happened or will happen:
Steve flies home tomorrow – we’re all really excited.
excited about
Maria’s starting to get pretty excited about the wedding.
excited by/at
We’re all excited by the prospect of a party.
excited to do something
Michelle sounded excited to hear from him.
excited (that)
I’m so excited that we’re going to New York.
The food was nothing to get excited about (=not very good or special).
excited crowds of shoppers
2. very nervous and upset about something so that you cannot relax
excited about
There’s no point getting excited about it. We can’t change things.
3. feeling sexual desire
—excitedly adverb:
People had gathered and were talking excitedly.
• • •
THESAURUS
excited feeling happy, especially about something good that has happened or is going to happen: He’s excited about his new job. | The kids always get excited on their birthday. | An excited crowd watched their team win 3–0. | When we get home, the dogs are always excited to see us. | Doctors are very excited by the discovery.
thrilled /θrɪld/ [not before noun] very excited and pleased: She was thrilled to hear that you were in London. | I was thrilled when they told me that I’d got a place on the course.
exhilarated /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtəd, ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪd/ [not before noun] very excited and full of energy, especially because you are experiencing something new or something that involves risks: She felt exhilarated by her new freedom. | The climb left him feeling exhilarated.
look forward to something to feel excited about something good that is going to happen and to think about it a lot: The kids are looking forward to their vacation – they’ve never been to California before. | She’s really looking forward to meeting him.
can’t wait to do something especially spoken to be very excited about something good that is going to happen: I can’t wait to see him again.
on the edge of your seat extremely excited and interested when you are watching a film, game etc, because you do not know what is going to happen next: I was on the edge of my seat throughout the movie. | The game kept fans on the edge of their seats.
on tenterhooks /ˈtentəhʊks $ -ər-/ very excited and nervous because you are waiting to find out what has happened: Don’t keep us on tenterhooks! Did you pass your test?
rapturous [usually before noun] especially written rapturous behaviour shows that a large group of people are extremely excited and pleased: They received a rapturous welcome. | He came on the stage to rapturous applause (=everyone was clapping and cheering).

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

excited

ex·cited   [ɪkˈsaɪtɪd]    [ɪkˈsaɪtɪd]  adjective
1. feeling or showing happiness and enthusiasm
~ (about sth) The children were excited about opening their presents.
~ (at sth) I'm really excited at the prospect of working abroad.
~ (by sth) Don't get too excited by the sight of your name in print.
~ (to do sth) He was very excited to be asked to play for Wales.
The new restaurant is nothing to get excited about (= not particularly good).

• An excited crowd of people gathered around her.

2. nervous or upset and unable to relax

• Some horses become excited when they're in traffic.

3. feeling sexual desire
Syn: aroused
Derived Word: excitedly  
Thesaurus:
excited [excited excitedly] adj.
The kids are excited about the trip.
ecstaticelatedexhilaratedrapturouseuphoric
excited/ecstatic/elated/euphoric at sth
excited/ecstatic/elated about sth
feel excited/elated/exhilarated/euphoric 
Synonyms:
excited
ecstatic elated euphoric rapturous exhilarated
These words all describe feeling or showing happiness and enthusiasm.
excitedfeeling or showing happiness and enthusiasm: The kids were excited about the holiday.
ecstaticvery happy, excited and enthusiastic; showing this enthusiasm: Sally was ecstatic about her new job.
elatedhappy and excited because of sth good that has happened or will happen: I was elated with the thrill of success.
euphoricvery happy and excited, but usually only for a short time: My euphoric mood could not last.
rapturousexpressing extreme pleasure or enthusiasm: He was greeted with rapturous applause.
exhilaratedhappy and excited, especially after physical activity: She felt exhilarated with the speed.
to feel excited/elated/euphoric/exhilarated
to be excited/ecstatic/elated/euphoric at sth
to be excited/ecstatic/elated about sth
to be excited/elated/exhilarated by sth
to be ecstatic/elated/exhilarated with sth 
Example Bank:
Don't get the children too excited.
He was all excited about his new car.
He was puzzled but strangely excited by the commotion.
Maura tried not to look overly excited.
The kids seem pretty excited about the holiday.
excited at the news
• He was really excited to be asked to play for Wales.

• The buzz of excited chatter was quite deafening.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

excited / ɪkˈsaɪ.tɪd /   / -t̬ɪd / adjective

A1 feeling very happy and enthusiastic:

Are you getting excited about your holiday?

An excited crowd waited for the singer to arrive.

 

excitedly / -li / adverb

B1

She ran excitedly down the hall to greet her cousins.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

excited

/ɪksaɪtɪd/

1.
If you are excited, you are so happy that you cannot relax, especially because you are thinking about something pleasant that is going to happen to you.
I’m very excited about the possibility of playing for England’s first team...
I was so excited when I went to sign the paperwork I could hardly write.
ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ about n
ex‧cit‧ed‧ly
‘You’re coming?’ he said excitedly. ‘That’s fantastic! That’s incredible!’
ADV: ADV with v

2.
If you are excited, you are very worried or angry about something, and so you are very alert and cannot relax.
I don’t think there’s any reason to get excited about inflation...
= agitated
ADJ
ex‧cit‧ed‧ly
Larry rose excitedly to the edge of his seat, shook a fist at us and spat.
ADV: ADV with v

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

excited

excited adj [more ~; most ~] : very enthusiastic and eager about something
• They were excited about/over the trip.
• We were excited (to hear) that they were getting married.
• The children were excited before the school play.

selfless

selfless [adjective]

Someone who is selfless only thinks of other people's advantage

US /ˈself.ləs/ 
UK /ˈself.ləs/ 
Example: 

selfless devotion to duty

media: 

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

selfless

selfless /ˈselfləs/ BrE AmE adjective
caring about other people more than about yourself – used to show approval:
selfless devotion to their work

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

selfless

self·less [selfless selflessly selflessness]   [ˈselfləs]    [ˈselfləs]  adjective
thinking more about the needs, happiness, etc. of other people than about your own
a life of selfless service to the community

Opp:  selfish 

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

selfless / ˈself.ləs / adjective approving

Someone who is selfless only thinks of other people's advantage:

selfless devotion to duty

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

selfless

/selfləs/

If you say that someone is selfless, you approve of them because they care about other people more than themselves.
Perhaps the only all-enduring and selfless love was that of a mother for her child.

ADJ [approval]

self‧less‧ly
I’ve never known anyone who cared so selflessly about children.

ADV

self‧less‧ness
I have enormous regard for his selflessness on behalf of his fellow man.

N-UNCOUNT

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

selfless

self·less /ˈsɛlfləs/ adj [more ~; most ~] : having or showing great concern for other people and little or no concern for yourself
• a selfless act
selfless dedication/devotion/love

brave

brave [adjective]

showing no fear of dangerous or difficult things

US /breɪv/ 
UK /breɪv/ 
Example: 

It was a brave decision to quit her job and start her own business.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

brave

 adjective (braver, bravest)
ready to do dangerous or difficult things without fear:
brave soldiers
Try to be brave.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

brave

I. brave1 S3 /breɪv/ BrE AmE adjective (comparative braver, superlative bravest)
[Date: 1400-1500; Language: French; Origin: Old Italian and Old Spanish bravo 'brave, wild', from Latin barbarus; ⇨ ↑barbarous]
1.
a) dealing with danger, pain, or difficult situations with courage and confidence SYN courageous:
brave soldiers
her brave fight against cancer
it is brave of somebody (to do something)
It was brave of you to speak in front of all those people.
b) the brave [plural] brave people:
Today we remember the brave who died in the last war.
2. very good:
Despite their captain’s brave performance, Arsenal lost 2–1.
brave effort/attempt
the brave efforts of the medical staff to save his life
3. put on a brave face/front to pretend that you are happy when you are really very upset
4. brave new world a situation or a way of doing something that is new and exciting and meant to improve people’s lives:
the brave new world of digital television
—bravely adverb:
She smiled bravely.
• • •
THESAURUS
brave showing that you are not afraid to do things that other people find dangerous or difficult: I think he was incredibly brave to do a parachute jump. | a brave attempt to change the system
courageous /kəˈreɪdʒəs/ especially written very brave – used especially about someone fighting for what they believe in, or fighting against a disease: a courageous speech | her courageous fight against cancer
daring brave and willing to take a lot of risks: a daring escape from a prison camp | a daring fighter pilot | a daring thing to do
bold willing to make difficult decisions or say what you think, even though it may involve risks: It was a bold move to set up his own company. | She was very bold in criticizing the leadership.
intrepid written willing to do dangerous things or go to dangerous places: an intrepid traveller | We sent our intrepid reporter to find out what is happening.
adventurous used about someone who enjoys going to new places and doing new, possibly dangerous, things: More adventurous visitors can go skiing or snowboarding.
fearless not afraid of anything or anyone: a fearless campaigner for human rights
heroic very brave and admired by many people: heroic rescuers | Despite heroic efforts to save him, he died.
plucky brave and determined – often used in newspapers: Plucky Megan, aged 10, has beaten cancer twice.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

brave

brave [brave braves braved braving braver bravest] adjective, verb, noun   [breɪv]    [breɪv] 

adjective (braver, brav·est)
1. (of a person) willing to do things which are difficult, dangerous or painful; not afraid
Syn:  courageous
brave men and women
• Be brave!

• I wasn't brave enough to tell her what I thought of her.

2. (of an action) requiring or showing courage
a brave decision
• She died after a brave fight against cancer.

• He felt homesick, but made a brave attempt to appear cheerful.

3. ~ new (sometimes ironic) new in an impressive way
a vision of a brave new Britain  
Word Origin:
late 15th cent.: from French, from Italian bravo ‘bold’ or Spanish bravo ‘courageous, untamed, savage’, based on Latin barbarus from Greek barbaros ‘foreign’.  
Thesaurus:
brave adj.
a brave fight against cancer
courageousheroicdaringadventurousbold|informal gutsy|written fearless|old-fashioned literary gallant
Opp: cowardly
a brave/courageous/heroic/daring/bold/gallant attempt/action
a brave/courageous/daring/bold decision
a brave/courageous/heroic/gallant resistance/struggle
a brave/courageous/fearless/gallant soldier  
Example Bank:
The whisky had made me brave.
I had to put on a brave face and try to show him that I wasn't worried.
I wasn't brave enough to tell her what I thought of her.
She took the brave decision to start her own business.
Idioms: brave new world  put a brave face on something  put on a brave face

Derived Words: bravely  bravery 

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

brave / breɪv / adjective

B1 showing no fear of dangerous or difficult things:

a brave soldier

It was a brave decision to quit her job and start her own business.

She was very brave to learn to ski at 50.

Of the three organizations criticized, only one was brave enough to face the press.

Richards has made a brave attempt to answer his critics.

This action will cause problems, despite the bank's brave talk/words about carrying on as if nothing had happened.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

brave

[bre͟ɪv]
 ♦♦♦
 braver, bravest, braves, braving, braved

 1) ADJ-GRADED Someone who is brave is willing to do things which are dangerous, and does not show fear in difficult or dangerous situations.
  He was not brave enough to report the loss of the documents.
  ...those brave people who dared to challenge the Stalinist regimes.
  Syn:
  courageous
  Ant:
  cowardly
  Derived words:
  bravely ADV-GRADED usu ADV with v, also ADV adj Our men wiped them out, but the enemy fought bravely and well... Mr Kim bravely stood up to authority.
 2) VERB If you brave unpleasant or dangerous conditions, you deliberately expose yourself to them, usually in order to achieve something. [WRITTEN]
  [V n] Thousands have braved icy rain to demonstrate their support.
 3) N-COUNT A brave is a young Native American man, especially one who is good at fighting. [OLD-FASHIONED]
 4) PHRASE: V inflects If someone is putting on a brave face or is putting a brave face on a difficult situation, they are pretending that they are happy or satisfied when they are not.
  He felt disappointed but he tried to put on a brave face...
  The White House tried to put a brave face on the job figures.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

1brave /ˈbreɪv/ adj brav·er; -est : feeling or showing no fear : not afraid
• He was a brave [=courageous, fearless] soldier.
• She gave us a brave smile.
• He lost his brave fight against the disease.
• She tried to put on/up a brave face/front [=she tried to appear brave or calm] despite the pain of the injury.
the brave : brave people
• the home of the brave
- brave·ly adv
• He smiled bravely as he stepped in front of the cameras.

remaining

remaining [adjective]

continuing to exist or be left after other parts or things have been used or taken away

US /rɪˈmeɪ.nɪŋ/ 
UK /rɪˈmeɪ.nɪŋ/ 
Example: 

Bernstein's remaining lecture will take place on 22 January .

Oxford Essential Dictionary

remaining

 adjective
continuing to exist or stay after other people or things have gone or been used:
They spent the remaining two days of their holiday on the beach.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

remaining

remaining W2 /rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ/ BrE AmE adjective [only before noun]
[Word Family: noun: the remainder, ↑remainder, ↑remains; verb: ↑remain; adjective: ↑remaining]
the remaining people or things are those that are left when the others have gone, been used, or been dealt with:
The few remaining guests were in the kitchen.
Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes.
The only remaining question is whether we can raise the money.

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

remaining

re·main·ing 7 [remaining]   [rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ]    [rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ]  adjective only before noun
still needing to be done or dealt with
The remaining twenty patients were transferred to another hospital.

Any remaining tickets for the concert will be sold on the door.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

remaining / rɪˈmeɪ.nɪŋ / adjective [ before noun ]

B2 continuing to exist or be left after other parts or things have been used or taken away:

Bernstein's remaining lecture will take place on 22 January .

Mix in half the butter and keep the remaining 50 g for later.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

remaining

[rɪme͟ɪnɪŋ]
 ♦♦♦
 1) ADJ: ADJ n The remaining things or people out of a group are the things or people that still exist, are still present, or have not yet been dealt with.
  The three parties will meet next month to work out remaining differences...
  The United States has withdrawn the remaining staff from its embassy...
  Stir in the remaining ingredients.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

- remaining adj
• Add the remaining ingredients to the sauce.
• a few remaining guests

English translation unavailable for cold.

tough

tough [adjective] (STRONG)

strong; not easily broken or made weaker or defeated

US /tʌf/ 
UK /tʌf/ 
Example: 

You have to be tough to be successful in politics.

Oxford Essential Dictionary

tough

 adjective (tougher, toughest)

1 difficult same meaning hard:
This is a tough job.

2 strict or firm same meaning hard:
He's very tough on his children.
 opposite soft

3 very strong:
You need to be tough to go climbing in winter.

4 Tough meat is difficult to cut and eat. opposite tender

5 difficult to break or tear:
a tough pair of boots

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

tough

I. tough1 S2 W2 /tʌf/ BrE AmE adjective (comparative tougher, superlative toughest)
[Word Family: adverb: ↑toughly, ↑tough, ↑toughly; verb: ↑toughen; noun: ↑toughness; adjective: ↑tough]
[Language: Old English; Origin: toh]
1. DIFFICULT difficult to do or deal with:
It was a tough race.
She’s had a tough life.
The company admitted that it had been a tough year.
Tough decisions will have to be made.
The reporters were asking a lot of tough questions.
have a tough time (of it) (=face a lot of difficult problems)
The family has had a tough time of it these last few months.
it’s tough doing something
It’s tough being married to a cop.
be tough on somebody (=cause problems for someone or make their life difficult)
Having to stay indoors all day is tough on a kid.
It was a tough call (=a difficult decision), but we had to cancel the game because of the weather.
I find his books pretty tough going (=difficult to read).
Gage predicted the president’s proposal would be a tough sell (=something that is difficult to persuade someone about) before Congress. American English
when the going gets tough (the tough get going) informal (=used to say that when a situation becomes difficult, strong people take the necessary action to deal with it)
2. STRONG PERSON physically or emotionally strong and able to deal with difficult situations:
The men who work on the oil rigs are a tough bunch.
tough cookie/customer informal (=someone who is very determined to do what they want and not what other people want)
as tough as nails/as tough as old boots (=very tough)
He’s as tough as nails – a good man to have on the team.
3. STRONG MATERIAL not easily broken or made weaker:
tough, durable plastic
a very tough, hard-wearing cloth
4. STRICT/FIRM very strict or firm
tough on/with
My mother was very tough on my sister.
It’s time to get tough with drunk drivers.
The EU is taking a tough line with the UK over this issue.
5. VIOLENT AREA a tough part of a town has a lot of crime or violence
tough neighborhood/area/part of town etc
a tough area of Chicago
6. tough!/that’s tough! spoken used when you do not have any sympathy with someone:
‘I’m getting wet.’ ‘Tough! You should’ve brought your umbrella.’
She didn’t tell us she was coming, so if this screws up her plans that’s just tough.
7. tough luck! spoken
a) used when you do not have any sympathy for someone’s problems:
Well, that’s just their tough luck! It was their mistake.
b) British English used when you feel sympathy about something bad that has happened to someone:
You didn’t get the job? Oh, tough luck!
8. tough shit! spoken not polite used when you do not have any sympathy for someone’s problems
9. VIOLENT PERSON likely to behave violently and having no gentle qualities:
one of football’s most notorious tough guys
tough young thugs looking for trouble
10. FOOD difficult to cut or eat OPP tender:
The meat was tough and hard to chew.
the tough outer leaves of the cabbage
11. tough love a way of helping someone to change their behaviour by treating them in a kind but strict way

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

tough

tough [tough toughs] adjective, noun, verb   [tʌf]    [tʌf] 

 

adjective (tough·er, tough·est

DIFFICULT
1. having or causing problems or difficulties
a tough childhood
It was a tough decision to make.
She's been having a tough time of it (= a lot of problems) lately.
• He faces the toughest test of his leadership so far.

• It can be tough trying to juggle a career and a family.  

STRICT/FIRM

2. demanding that particular rules be obeyed and showing a lack of sympathy for any problems or suffering that this may cause
~ (on sb/sth) Don't be too tough on him— he was only trying to help.
~ (with sb/sth) It's about time teachers started to get tough with bullies.
The school takes a tough line on (= punishes severely) cheating.
• Local traders are calling for tougher action against vandals.

Opp:  soft  

STRONG

3. strong enough to deal successfully with difficult conditions or situations
a tough breed of cattle
• He's not tough enough for a career in sales.

• She's a tough cookie/customer (= sb who knows what they want and is not easily influenced by other people).

4. (of a person) physically strong and likely to be violent
• You think you're so tough, don't you?

• He plays the tough guy in the movie.  

MEAT

5. difficult to cut or chew

Opp:  tender  

NOT EASILY DAMAGED

6. not easily cut, broken, torn, etc
• a tough pair of shoes

• The reptile's skin is tough and scaly.  

UNFORTUNATE

7. ~ (on sb) (informal) unfortunate for sb in a way that seems unfair
It was tough on her being dropped from the team like that.
(ironic) ‘I can't get it finished in time.’ ‘Tough! (= I don't feel sorry about it.)
more at a hard/tough act to follow at  act  n., when the going gets tough (the tough get going) at  going  n., hang tough at  hang  v., a hard/tough nuta hard/tough nut (to crack) at  nut  n., talk tough at  talk  v.  
Word Origin:
Old English tōh, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch taai and German zäh.  
Example Bank:
Has the government been tough enough on polluters?
He may find it tough to pursue his plans.
It's very tough on the wives when the husbands go off like that.
It's very tough on the wives when the husbands leave.
The government has promised to get tough on crime.
The meat was a bit tough.
The strong dollar has made it tough for small businesses.
Then this guy started acting tough.
Things were pretty tough at first.
You have to be tough with these young thugs.
Don't be too tough on him— he was only trying to help.
He had a tough childhood.
It's about time teachers started to get tough with bullies.
It's tough out there in the real world.
She's been having a tough time of it.
The next couple of months will be tough, but I'm sure we'll cope.
The school takes a tough line on cheating.
There will be tough new controls on car emissions.
We must take a tough stance against terrorism.
Idioms: tough as nails  tough as old boots  tough luck
Derived Words: toughly  toughness

Derived: tough something out 

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

tough / tʌf / adjective (STRONG)

B2 strong; not easily broken or made weaker or defeated:

These toys are made from tough plastic.

Children's shoes need to be tough.

You have to be tough to be successful in politics.

informal Their lawyer is a real tough customer/nut (= person) .

C2 strong and determined:

Tough new safety standards have been introduced for cars.

There have been calls for tougher controls/restrictions on what newspapers are allowed to print.

After some tough bargaining, we finally agreed on a deal.

I think it's time the police got tougher on/with (= treated more severely) people who drink and drive.

The government is continuing to take a tough line on terrorism.

 

toughly / ˈtʌf.li / adverb

These boots are very toughly (= strongly) made.

The newspaper published a toughly worded article about racist behaviour.

We live in a toughly competitive world.

 

toughness / ˈtʌf.nəs /

C2

She has a reputation for toughness (= being strong and determined) .

They can't face the toughness of the competition .

 

tough / tʌf / adjective (DIFFICULT)

B2 difficult to do or to deal with:

They've had an exceptionally tough life.

They will be a tough team to beat.

The company is going through a tough time at the moment.

We've had to make some very tough decisions .

My boss has given me a tough job/assignment .

Many homeless people are facing a tough winter .

 

toughly / ˈtʌf.li / adverb

These boots are very toughly (= strongly) made.

The newspaper published a toughly worded article about racist behaviour.

We live in a toughly competitive world.

 

toughness / ˈtʌf.nəs /

C2

She has a reputation for toughness (= being strong and determined) .

They can't face the toughness of the competition .
 

tough / tʌf / adjective (FOOD)

B2 describes food that is difficult to cut or eat:

This steak is very tough.

These apples have tough skins.

 

toughness / ˈtʌf.nəs /

C2

She has a reputation for toughness (= being strong and determined) .

They can't face the toughness of the competition .
 

tough / tʌf / adjective (VIOLENT)

likely to be violent or to contain violence; not kind or pleasant:

a tough neighbourhood

Many of the country's toughest criminals are held in this prison.

 

toughly / ˈtʌf.li / adverb

These boots are very toughly (= strongly) made.

The newspaper published a toughly worded article about racist behaviour.

We live in a toughly competitive world.

 

toughness / ˈtʌf.nəs /

C2

She has a reputation for toughness (= being strong and determined) .

They can't face the toughness of the competition .

 

tough / tʌf / adjective (UNLUCKY)

C2 informal unlucky:

"I've been told I've got to work late today because I'm very behind on my work." "Oh, tough luck !"

It's tough on Geoff that he's going to miss the party.

informal sometimes used to show that you have no sympathy for someone's problems or difficulties:

"I haven't got any money left." "Well, ( that's just) tough - you shouldn't have spent it all on cigarettes."

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

tough

[tʌ̱f]
 ♦♦
 tougher, toughest, toughs, toughing, toughed

 1) ADJ-GRADED A tough person is strong and determined, and can tolerate difficulty or suffering.
  He built up a reputation as a tough businessman...
  She is tough and ambitious.
  Derived words:
  toughness N-UNCOUNT Mrs Potter has won a reputation for toughness and determination on her way to the top.
 2) ADJ-GRADED If you describe someone as tough, you mean that they are rough and violent.
  He had shot three people dead earning himself a reputation as a tough guy.
 N-COUNT
 A tough is a tough person. Three burly toughs elbowed their way to the front.
 3) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n A tough place or area is considered to have a lot of crime and violence.
  She doesn't seem cut out for this tough neighbourhood...
  Arthur grew up in a tough city.
  Syn:
  rough
 4) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n A tough way of life or period of time is difficult or full of suffering.
  She had a pretty tough childhood...
  It's been a tough day...
  He was having a really tough time at work.
  Syn:
  rough
 5) ADJ-GRADED: oft it v-link ADJ to-inf, ADJ to-inf A tough task or problem is difficult to do or solve.
  It was a very tough decision but we feel we made the right one...
  Whoever wins the election is going to have a tough job getting the economy back on its feet...
  It may be tough to raise cash...
  Change is often tough to deal with.
  Syn:
  hard
 6) ADJ-GRADED Tough policies or actions are strict and firm.
  He is known for taking a tough line on security...
  He announced tough measures to limit the money supply.
  Syn:
  strict
 7) ADJ-GRADED A tough substance is strong, and difficult to break, cut, or tear.
  In industry, diamond can form a tough, non-corrosive coating for tools.
  ...dark brown beans with a rather tough outer skin.
 8) ADJ-GRADED Tough meat is difficult to cut and chew.
  The steak was tough and the peas were like bullets.
 9) PHRASE: V inflects If someone who is trying to achieve something hangs tough, they remain determined and do not give up, even when there are difficulties or problems. [AM, INFORMAL]
  The White House is hanging tough for a good agreement to be reached.
 10) a tough row to hoesee hoe
 tough lucksee luck
 a tough nutsee nut
  Phrasal Verbs:
  - tough out

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

1tough /ˈtʌf/ adj tough·er; tough·est
1 : very difficult to do or deal with
• a tough [=hard] assignment/problem
tough choices
• She had a tough time in college.
• It's been a tough year for our family. = This year has been tough on [=hard on] our family.
- often followed by to + verb
• It was tough to quit smoking.
• The problem was tough to solve.
2 a : physically and emotionally strong : able to do hard work, to deal with harsh conditions, etc.
tough soldiers
• Are you tough enough for the job?
b : physically strong and violent
tough criminals
• He's been hanging around with a bunch of tough guys.
3 a : strong and not easily broken or damaged
tough fibers
• The rug is made of tough material.
b : difficult to cut or chew
tough meat
4 : very strict
• a tough law/policy
• He's a tough boss/teacher, but fair.
• The candidates both vow to get tough on crime. [=to deal harshly with criminals]
5 : having a lot of crime or danger
• a tough neighborhood
6 : hard to influence or persuade
• She's a tough bargainer/negotiator.
7 informal : unfortunate in a way that seems unfair
• It's tough that he lost that job.
- often used in an ironic way to show that you do not feel sympathy for someone
• “He failed the test.” “Well, that's tough. Maybe if he'd studied a little he would have passed.”
• He failed the test? Tough! [=too bad] He should have studied more than he did.
- see also tough luck at 1luck
(as) tough as nails
- see 1nail
(as) tough as old boots Brit informal : very tough
• This steak is as tough as old boots.
• Don't worry about her—she's as tough as old boots.
a tough act to follow
- see follow
a tough nut (to crack)
- see nut
a tough row to hoe
- see 1row

artificial

artificial [adjective]

made by people, often as a copy of something natural

US /ˌɑːr.t̬əˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
UK /ˌɑː.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
Example: 

clothes made of artificial fibres

Oxford Essential Dictionary

artificial

 adjective
not natural or real, but made by people:
artificial flowers

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

artificial

artificial S3 /ˌɑːtəˈfɪʃəl◂, ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl◂ $ ˌɑːr-/ BrE AmE adjective [usually before noun]
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Old French; Origin: artificiel, from Latin artificialis, from artificium; ⇨ ↑artifice]
1. not real or not made of natural things but made to be like something that is real or natural SYN false OPP natural:
artificial flowers
artificial light
artificial fertilizers
2. an artificial situation or quality exists because someone has made it exist, and not because it is really necessary:
artificial distinctions
artificial barriers of gender and race
3. artificial behaviour is not sincere – used to show disapproval OPP genuine:
an artificial smile
—artificially adverb:
Food prices are being kept artificially low.
—artificiality /ˌɑːtəfɪʃiˈæləti, ˌɑːtɪfɪʃiˈæləti $ ˌɑːr-/ noun [uncountable]
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ nouns
artificial light/lighting Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate.
artificial sweeteners (=used to make food or drink taste sweeter) Diet drinks contain artificial sweeteners like saccharin.
artificial colours (=used in food) I try to buy food that is free from artificial colours.
artificial flavours Ice cream often has artificial flavours in it.
artificial additives (=used to give food more colour or taste) Artificial additives such as colourings, sweeteners and flavour enhancers aren’t permitted in baby foods.
artificial preservatives (=used to preserve food) This jam has no artificial preservatives.
artificial flowers a vase of stiff-looking artificial flowers
an artificial environment Animals hate being confined in an artificial environment.
artificial grass artificial grass tennis courts
artificial snow Some ski resorts use huge amounts of artificial snow.
an artificial pitch British English The club is building a new artificial training pitch at its sports ground.
• • •
THESAURUS
artificial not real or natural, but made to look or work like something real or natural: artificial flowers | He was given an artificial heart.
synthetic made using chemical processes rather than by natural processes: synthetic fabrics | a synthetic version of the drug
man-made made by people – used especially about geographical features and materials: a man-made lake | man-made fibres
fake made to look or seem like something else, especially in order to deceive people: a fake passport | fake fur
imitation made to look like something, but not real – used especially about guns, jewellery, and leather: imitation firearms | imitation pearls
false artificial – used especially about teeth, ↑eyelashes, and ↑beards: a set of false teeth
simulated not real, but made to look, sound, or feel real, especially by means of special computers or machines: a simulated space flight
virtual made, done, seen etc on a computer, rather than in the real world: a virtual tour of the garden

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

artificial

ar·ti·fi·cial   [ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl]    [ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃl]  adjective
1. made or produced to copy sth natural; not real
an artificial limb/flower/sweetener/fertilizer

artificial lighting/light

2. created by people; not happening naturally
• A job interview is a very artificial situation.

• the artificial barriers of race, class and gender

3. not what it appears to be
Syn:  fake
artificial emotion
Derived Words: artificiality  artificially  
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from Old French artificiel or Latin artificialis, from artificium ‘handicraft’, based on ars, art- ‘art’ + facere ‘make’.  
Thesaurus:
artificial adj.
1.
free from artificial colours and flavours
syntheticman-madefalsefakeimitation
Opp: natural
artificial/synthetic/man-made fabrics/fibres/materials/products
artificial/synthetic/fake/imitation fur/leather
artificial/synthetic/false/fake/imitation diamonds/pearls
2.
A job interview is a very artificial situation.
disapproving forcedstrainedlabouredcontrived
a/an artificial/contrived situation/example
a forced/strained smile
sound forced/strained/laboured/contrived 
Synonyms:
artificial
synthetic false man-made fake imitation
These words all describe things that are not real, or not naturally produced or grown.
artificialmade or produced to copy sth natural; not real: artificial flowers artificial light
syntheticmade by combining chemical substances rather than being produced naturally by plants or animals: synthetic drugs shoes with synthetic soles
falsenot natural: false teeth a false beard
man-mademade by people; not natural: man-made fibres such as nylon
fakemade to look like sth else; not real: a fake-fur jacket
imitation[only before noun] made to look like sth else; not real: She would never wear imitation pearls.
artificial/synthetic/man-made fabrics/fibres/materials/products
artificial/synthetic/fake/imitation fur/leather
artificial/synthetic/false/fake/imitation diamonds/pearls  
Example Bank:
a patently artificial contrivance
All food served in the restaurant is completely free from any artificial colours and flavours.
I don't like having to do detailed work in artificial light.
It would be entirely artificial to try and divorce the two issues.
• The patient was kept alive by the artificial heart for nearly two months.

• They use rather artificial examples.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

artificial / ˌɑː.tɪˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / ˌɑːr.t̬ɪ- / adjective

B2 made by people, often as a copy of something natural:

clothes made of artificial fibres

an artificial heart

an artificial lake

artificial fur/sweeteners/flowers

C2 disapproving not sincere:

Their cheerfulness seemed rather strained and artificial.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

artificial

[ɑ͟ː(r)tɪfɪ̱ʃ(ə)l]
 1) ADJ Artificial objects, materials, or processes do not occur naturally and are created by human beings, for example using science or technology.
  ...a wholefood diet free from artificial additives, colours and flavours...
  The city is dotted with small lakes, natural and artificial...
  He did not want his life to be prolonged by artificial means.
  Syn:
  synthetic
  Ant:
  natural
  Derived words:
  artificially ADV usu ADV with v, also ADV adj ...artificially sweetened lemonade. ...drugs which artificially reduce heart rate.
 2) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n An artificial state or situation exists only because someone has created it, and therefore often seems unnatural or unnecessary.
  Even in the artificial environment of an office, our body rhythms continue to affect us...
  He foresaw an open society without artificial barriers of background, religion or race.
  Derived words:
  artificiality [ɑ͟ː(r)tɪfɪ̱ʃiælɪti] N-UNCOUNT oft N of n ...another example of the capriciousness and artificiality of our adversarial system of justice.
  artificially ADV-GRADED ADV adj, ADV with v ...state subsidies that have kept retail prices artificially low.
 3) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you describe someone or their behaviour as artificial, you disapprove of them because they pretend to have attitudes and feelings which they do not really have.
  The voice was patronizing and affected, the accent artificial.
  Derived words:
  artificiality N-UNCOUNT oft N of n ...the novel's use of homosexuality to suggest the artificiality of all relationships in that nervous city.
 4) ADJ-GRADED If you say that food tastes or looks artificial, you do not like it because its taste or appearance does not seem genuine, and seems to be created by added substances.
  The meat was chewy and the sauce was glutinous and tasted artificial.
  ...complaints that their tinned peas were an artificial shade of green.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

artificial

 

ar·ti·fi·cial /ˌɑɚtəˈfɪʃl̩/ adj
1 : not natural or real : made, produced, or done to seem like something natural
artificial lighting/plants
• the world's first artificial heart
• This product contains no artificial colors/flavors/sweeteners—only natural substances are used.
2 : not happening or existing naturally : created or caused by people
artificial price inflation
• The country's borders are artificial, and were set with no consideration for the various ethnic groups in the region.
3 [more ~; most ~] : not sincere
• an artificial smile
• Her concern seemed a bit artificial. [=forced]

superficial

superficial [adjective] (NOT SERIOUS)

(of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important

US /ˌsuː.pɚˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
UK /ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
Example: 

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

superficial

superficial /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃəl◂ $ -pər-/ BrE AmE adjective
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Late Latin; Origin: superficialis, from Latin superficies 'surface', from facies 'face']
1. NOT LOOKING/STUDYING CAREFULLY not studying or looking at something carefully and only seeing the most noticeable things
superficial examination/study etc
Even a superficial inspection revealed serious flaws.
Naturally, such visits can allow only the most superficial understanding of prison life.
2. APPEARANCE seeming to have a particular quality, although this is not true or real
superficial resemblance/similarity
Despite their superficial similarities, the two novels are, in fact, very different.
Beneath his refined manners and superficial elegance lay something treacherous.
at/on a superficial level
At a superficial level, things seem to have remained the same.
3. WOUND/DAMAGE affecting only the surface of your skin or the outside part of something, and therefore not serious:
She escaped with only superficial cuts and bruises.
superficial damage
4. PERSON someone who is superficial does not think about things that are serious or important – used to show disapproval SYN shallow:
All the other girls seemed silly and superficial to Darlene.
5. NOT IMPORTANT superficial changes, difficulties etc are not important and do not have a big effect SYN minor:
superficial changes in government policies
6. TOP LAYER existing in or relating to the top layer of something, especially soil, rock etc

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

superficial

super·fi·cial   [ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl]    [ˌsjuːpəˈfɪʃl]    [ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl]  adjective
1. (often disapproving) not studying or looking at sth thoroughly; seeing only what is obvious
• a superficial analysis

• The book shows only a superficial understanding of the historical context.

2. appearing to be true, real or important until you look at it more carefully
• superficial differences/similarities

• When you first meet her, she gives a superficial impression of warmth and friendliness.

3. (of a wound or damage) only affecting the surface and therefore not serious
• a superficial injury

• superficial burns

4. (disapproving) not concerned with anything serious or important and lacking any depth of understanding or feeling
Syn:  shallow
a superficial friendship
• The guests engaged in superficial chatter.

• She's so superficial!

5. (technical) of or on the surface of sth
superficial veins
a superficial deposit of acidic soils
Derived Words: superficiality  superficially  
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from late Latin superficialis, from Latin superficies, from super- ‘above’ + facies ‘face’.  
Example Bank:
• The movie bears a fairly superficial resemblance to the original novel.

• Superficial similarities can be deceptive.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective disapproving (NOT SERIOUS)

C2 (of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important:

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective usually disapproving (NOT COMPLETE)

C2 not complete and involving only the most obvious things:

I thought that article was written at a very superficial level.

The documentary's treatment/analysis of the issues was very superficial.

I only have a superficial (= slight) knowledge of French.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective (FALSE APPEARANCE)

appearing to be real or important when this is not true or correct:

There are superficial similarities between the two cars, but actually they're quite different in terms of performance.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective (ONLY ON SURFACE)

only on the surface of something:

superficial damage

The driver only received superficial injuries/cuts/wounds.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

superficial

[su͟ːpə(r)fɪ̱ʃ(ə)l]
 1) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you describe someone as superficial, you disapprove of them because they do not think deeply, and have little understanding of anything serious or important.
  This guy is a superficial yuppie with no intellect whatsoever...
  The tone of his book is consistently negative, occasionally arrogant, and often superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficiality [su͟ːpə(r)fɪʃiæ̱lɪti] N-UNCOUNT oft N of n He hated the superficiality, the neon glamour and the cheap prettiness of life in L.A.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV after v Hill cannot write badly or superficially; his characters and plotting are, as usual, admirable.
 2) ADJ-GRADED If you describe something such as an action, feeling, or relationship as superficial, you mean that it includes only the simplest and most obvious aspects of that thing, and not those aspects which require more effort to deal with or understand.
  Their arguments do not withstand the most superficial scrutiny...
  His roommate had been pleasant on a superficial level...
  Father had no more than a superficial knowledge of music.
  Derived words:
  superficiality N-UNCOUNT oft N of n His assessment only serves to demonstrate the superficiality of the judgements we make when we first meet people.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with v The film touches on these difficult questions, but only superficially.
 3) ADJ-GRADED Superficial is used to describe the appearance of something or the impression that it gives, especially if its real nature is very different.
  Despite these superficial resemblances, this is a darker work than her earlier novels...
  Spain may well look different but the changes are superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with cl/group, ADV with v Many of these killers are frequently glib and superficially charming... Superficially there have been many changes in Britain in recent years.
 4) ADJ-GRADED Superficial injuries are not very serious, and affect only the surface of the body. You can also describe damage to an object as superficial.
  The 69-year-old clergyman escaped with superficial wounds...
  The explosion caused superficial damage to the fortified house.
  Syn:
  slight
 5) ADJ: ADJ n The superficial layers of the skin are the ones nearest the surface. [MEDICAL]
  ...superficial blood vessels in the forearm.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

superficial

su·per·fi·cial /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəl/ adj [more ~; most ~]
1 : concerned only with what is obvious or apparent : not thorough or complete
• a superficial analysis of the results/data
• They had a superficial knowledge/understanding of the topic.
• These superficial changes/solutions don't address the underlying problem.
2 a : affecting only the outer part or surface of something : not deep or serious
superficial wounds/cuts
• The storm only caused superficial damage to the building.
b : lying close to the surface
superficial veins
3
- used to describe a quality, characteristic, etc., that can be seen in the outward appearance or manner of something or someone but that is not deep or genuine
• Despite a superficial resemblance, the paintings are by two different artists.
• These similarities/differences are only superficial.
• Don't be deceived by his superficial charm.
On a superficial level, his theory works, but the facts don't support it.
4 disapproving : not caring about or involving important matters or deep emotions
• He thinks she's vain and superficial. [=shallow]
• I'm not interested in superficial relationships.
- su·per·fi·ci·al·i·ty /ˌsuːpɚˌfɪʃiˈæləti/ noun [noncount]
• the superficiality of pop culture
- su·per·fi·cial·ly /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəli/ adv
Superficially, at least, the two paintings are similar.

superficial

superficial [adjective] (NOT IMPORTANT)

NOT IMPORTANT superficial changes, difficulties etc are not important and do not have a big effect SYN minor

US /ˌsuː.pɚˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
UK /ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl/ 
Example: 

How many perfectly fine women are you gonna reject over the most superficial insignificant things?

media: 

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

superficial

superficial /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃəl◂ $ -pər-/ BrE AmE adjective
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Late Latin; Origin: superficialis, from Latin superficies 'surface', from facies 'face']
1. NOT LOOKING/STUDYING CAREFULLY not studying or looking at something carefully and only seeing the most noticeable things
superficial examination/study etc
Even a superficial inspection revealed serious flaws.
Naturally, such visits can allow only the most superficial understanding of prison life.
2. APPEARANCE seeming to have a particular quality, although this is not true or real
superficial resemblance/similarity
Despite their superficial similarities, the two novels are, in fact, very different.
Beneath his refined manners and superficial elegance lay something treacherous.
at/on a superficial level
At a superficial level, things seem to have remained the same.
3. WOUND/DAMAGE affecting only the surface of your skin or the outside part of something, and therefore not serious:
She escaped with only superficial cuts and bruises.
superficial damage
4. PERSON someone who is superficial does not think about things that are serious or important – used to show disapproval SYN shallow:
All the other girls seemed silly and superficial to Darlene.
5. NOT IMPORTANT superficial changes, difficulties etc are not important and do not have a big effect SYN minor:
superficial changes in government policies
6. TOP LAYER existing in or relating to the top layer of something, especially soil, rock etc
—superficially adverb
—superficiality /ˌsuːpəfɪʃiˈæləti, ˌsuːpəfɪʃiˈælɪti $ -pər-/ noun [uncountable]
 

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

superficial

super·fi·cial   [ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl]    [ˌsjuːpəˈfɪʃl]    [ˌsuːpərˈfɪʃl]  adjective
1. (often disapproving) not studying or looking at sth thoroughly; seeing only what is obvious
• a superficial analysis

• The book shows only a superficial understanding of the historical context.

2. appearing to be true, real or important until you look at it more carefully
• superficial differences/similarities

• When you first meet her, she gives a superficial impression of warmth and friendliness.

3. (of a wound or damage) only affecting the surface and therefore not serious
• a superficial injury

• superficial burns

4. (disapproving) not concerned with anything serious or important and lacking any depth of understanding or feeling
Syn:  shallow
a superficial friendship
• The guests engaged in superficial chatter.

• She's so superficial!

5. (technical) of or on the surface of sth
superficial veins
a superficial deposit of acidic soils
Derived Words: superficiality  superficially  
Word Origin:
late Middle English: from late Latin superficialis, from Latin superficies, from super- ‘above’ + facies ‘face’.  
Example Bank:
• The movie bears a fairly superficial resemblance to the original novel.

• Superficial similarities can be deceptive.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective disapproving (NOT SERIOUS)

C2 (of a person) never thinking about things that are serious or important:

He's fun to be with, but he's very superficial.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective usually disapproving (NOT COMPLETE)

C2 not complete and involving only the most obvious things:

I thought that article was written at a very superficial level.

The documentary's treatment/analysis of the issues was very superficial.

I only have a superficial (= slight) knowledge of French.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.

 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective (FALSE APPEARANCE)

appearing to be real or important when this is not true or correct:

There are superficial similarities between the two cars, but actually they're quite different in terms of performance.

 

superficiality / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ɪ.ti /   / -ˌfɪʃ.iˈæl.ə.t̬i / noun [ U ]

 

superficially / -i / adverb

C2

The job I've been offered is superficially (= seems to be) attractive/appealing, but I think I might find it boring after a while.

Religious education is poorly and superficially taught in most schools.
 

superficial / ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ. ə l /   / -pɚ- / adjective (ONLY ON SURFACE)

only on the surface of something:

superficial damage

The driver only received superficial injuries/cuts/wounds.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

superficial

[su͟ːpə(r)fɪ̱ʃ(ə)l]
 1) ADJ-GRADED (disapproval) If you describe someone as superficial, you disapprove of them because they do not think deeply, and have little understanding of anything serious or important.
  This guy is a superficial yuppie with no intellect whatsoever...
  The tone of his book is consistently negative, occasionally arrogant, and often superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficiality [su͟ːpə(r)fɪʃiæ̱lɪti] N-UNCOUNT oft N of n He hated the superficiality, the neon glamour and the cheap prettiness of life in L.A.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV after v Hill cannot write badly or superficially; his characters and plotting are, as usual, admirable.
 2) ADJ-GRADED If you describe something such as an action, feeling, or relationship as superficial, you mean that it includes only the simplest and most obvious aspects of that thing, and not those aspects which require more effort to deal with or understand.
  Their arguments do not withstand the most superficial scrutiny...
  His roommate had been pleasant on a superficial level...
  Father had no more than a superficial knowledge of music.
  Derived words:
  superficiality N-UNCOUNT oft N of n His assessment only serves to demonstrate the superficiality of the judgements we make when we first meet people.
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with v The film touches on these difficult questions, but only superficially.
 3) ADJ-GRADED Superficial is used to describe the appearance of something or the impression that it gives, especially if its real nature is very different.
  Despite these superficial resemblances, this is a darker work than her earlier novels...
  Spain may well look different but the changes are superficial.
  Derived words:
  superficially ADV-GRADED ADV with cl/group, ADV with v Many of these killers are frequently glib and superficially charming... Superficially there have been many changes in Britain in recent years.
 4) ADJ-GRADED Superficial injuries are not very serious, and affect only the surface of the body. You can also describe damage to an object as superficial.
  The 69-year-old clergyman escaped with superficial wounds...
  The explosion caused superficial damage to the fortified house.
  Syn:
  slight
 5) ADJ: ADJ n The superficial layers of the skin are the ones nearest the surface. [MEDICAL]
  ...superficial blood vessels in the forearm.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

superficial

su·per·fi·cial /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəl/ adj [more ~; most ~]
1 : concerned only with what is obvious or apparent : not thorough or complete
• a superficial analysis of the results/data
• They had a superficial knowledge/understanding of the topic.
• These superficial changes/solutions don't address the underlying problem.
2 a : affecting only the outer part or surface of something : not deep or serious
superficial wounds/cuts
• The storm only caused superficial damage to the building.
b : lying close to the surface
superficial veins
3
- used to describe a quality, characteristic, etc., that can be seen in the outward appearance or manner of something or someone but that is not deep or genuine
• Despite a superficial resemblance, the paintings are by two different artists.
• These similarities/differences are only superficial.
• Don't be deceived by his superficial charm.
On a superficial level, his theory works, but the facts don't support it.
4 disapproving : not caring about or involving important matters or deep emotions
• He thinks she's vain and superficial. [=shallow]
• I'm not interested in superficial relationships.
- su·per·fi·ci·al·i·ty /ˌsuːpɚˌfɪʃiˈæləti/ noun [noncount]
• the superficiality of pop culture
- su·per·fi·cial·ly /ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəli/ adv
Superficially, at least, the two paintings are similar.

undressed

undressed [verb]

not wearing any clothes

US /ʌnˈdres/ 
UK /ʌnˈdres/ 
Example: 

got undressed and got into the bath.

 

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

undressed

undressed /ˌʌnˈdrest◂/ BrE AmE adjective
[Word Family: noun: ↑dress, ↑dresser, ↑dressing; adjective: ↑dressed ≠ ↑undressed, ↑dressy; verb: ↑dress ≠ ↑undress]
1. [not before noun] not wearing any clothes:
He started to get undressed (=to take his clothes off).
2. an undressed wound has not been covered to protect it
• • •
THESAURUS
naked not wearing any clothes or not covered by clothes - used especially when this seems rather shocking: a naked man | He got out of bed naked, and answered the telephone. | his naked chest
have nothing on/not have anything on to not be wearing any clothes. This phrase is very commonly used in everyday English instead of saying that someone is naked: Can you wait a minute? I've got nothing on! | The little boy didn’t have anything on when he answered the door!
bare used about feet, legs, arms etc that are not covered by clothes: The sand was too hot to walk on in bare feet.
nude naked – used especially when talking about naked people in paintings, films etc: a nude portrait of his wife
undressed [not before noun] not wearing any clothes, especially because you have just taken them off in order to go to bed, have a bath etc: Sara was undressed and ready for bed but Jenny was fully clothed. | Wearily she got undressed and stepped into the shower.
topless if a woman is topless, she is not wearing any clothes on the upper part of her body, so that her breasts are not covered: a topless waitress
in the nude not wearing any clothes: Men and women swam together in the nude and thought nothing of it.
in your birthday suit informal humorous not wearing any clothes: He likes to sleep in his birthday suit. He says pyjamas are uncomfortable.
go commando informal humorous to not wear any underwear: In summertime, he likes to go commando.
in the buff informal not wearing any clothes - a very informal use: a beach where you can sunbathe in the buff

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

undressed

un·dressed [undressed]   [ʌnˈdrest]    [ʌnˈdrest]  adjective not usually before noun
not wearing any clothes
She began to get undressed (= remove her clothes).
He was half undressed when he answered the door.
Opp:  dressed  
Example Bank:
He was half undressed when the doorbell rang.
She felt undressed without her hat.
He said he felt undressed without a hat.

She began to get undressed.

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition

undressed / -ˈdrest / adjective [ usually after verb ]

B2

You two kids get undressed, and I'll run the bath.

 

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

undressed

[ʌ̱ndre̱st]
 ADJ
 If you are undressed, you are wearing no clothes or your night clothes. If you get undressed, you take off your clothes.
  Fifteen minutes later he was undressed and in bed...
  He got undressed in the bathroom.

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

undressed

un·dressed /ˌʌnˈdrɛst/ adj
1 not used before a noun : wearing no clothing : not dressed
• I was undressed when the fire alarm went off.
• She got undressed [=took off her clothes] and went to bed.
2 : not cared for or covered
• an undressed wound
3 technical : not finished : not prepared for use
undressed hides/stones

 

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