superficie
nounCEFR B2High frequency
What does “superficie” mean in English?
surface, area — the outside part of an object; also the total area of a space
surface, area — the outside part of an object; also the total area of a space (en la superficie; superficie total de)
Example sentences
La superficie total de los bosques protegidos en la región se ha ampliado en un quince por ciento.
The total area of protected forests in the region has expanded by fifteen per cent.
Las tensiones étnicas han salido de nuevo a la superficie tras años de aparente calma social.
Ethnic tensions have come to the surface again after years of apparent social calm.
El piso tiene noventa metros cuadrados de superficie útil, distribuidos en tres habitaciones.
The flat has ninety square metres of useable surface area, distributed across three rooms.
How to use it
La superficie (noun, feminine) means 'surface, area' — the outside part of something, or the total measured extent of land or space. Core B2 collocations: la superficie terrestre; superficie total de; en la superficie; superficie de venta (retail floor space); salir a la superficie (to come to the surface). The adjective is superficial. Distinguish from área (area — calculated extent) and zona (zone — defined region).
Common mistake
Superficie útil (usable floor area) vs. superficie construida (total built area) — important distinction in real estate. 'On the surface' (metaphorically) = en apariencia / superficialmente. Superficial (adjective) = superficial (can be pejorative).