noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective
Describes knowledge, learning, or understanding that is only on the surface, lacking depth. Often used in expressions like かいなでの知識 (superficial knowledge).
His knowledge of history is merely superficial.
With a shallow understanding, you can't solve this problem.
Mixed kanji-kana spelling; usually written in kana.
Kana spelling is standard for this word; usually written in kana.
Full kanji spelling; rare in modern usage.
Compound of 掻い (kai, prefix adding emphasis or lightness) and 撫で (nade, 'stroking' or 'smoothing over'), literally 'lightly stroking over'. The figurative sense of superficiality comes from the idea of barely touching the surface.