The term "lip-deep" is often used to describe a situation where someone is only superficially involved or engaged in something, typically indicating a lack of genuine commitment or depth. It can also refer to being only partially knowledgeable or invested in a subject.
Su compromiso con el proyecto era superficial, ya que solo estaba haciendo lo mínimo para salir adelante.
She seemed lip-deep in the discussion but had not read the material beforehand.
Parecía estar superficialmente involucrada en la discusión, pero no había leído el material de antemano.
The charity’s efforts were lip-deep, with little follow-through on their promises.
"Lip-deep" can be associated with various idiomatic expressions that emphasize the idea of superficiality or half-hearted involvement. Here are some examples:
Estaba superficialmente lleno de excusas sobre por qué perdió la fecha límite en lugar de disculparse sinceramente.
Lip-deep commitment: Refers to a shallow or insincere commitment to something.
Su compromiso superficial con la causa era evidente cuando se saltaron las reuniones importantes.
Lip-deep analysis: Refers to a cursory or superficial examination of a topic.
The term "lip-deep" combines the word "lip," indicating the surface of something often associated with speaking or superficial engagement, and "deep," suggesting a lack of depth or substance. The phrase plays on the contrast between the physical mouth and emotional or intellectual involvement.