What term is used to indicate that something is nearer to the surface?

The term "superficial" is used in anatomy and clinical practice to describe structures or areas that are close to or located just beneath the skin's surface. This term helps healthcare professionals distinguish between different layers of tissue and organs in the body. For example, a superficial wound would imply that the injury affects only the outer layers of the skin, such as the epidermis and possibly the dermis, rather than deeper structures like muscles or organs.

In contrast, the other terms provided describe different anatomical relationships. "Deep" refers to structures that are located farther from the surface of the skin or body cavity, while "peripheral" typically refers to areas farther away from the center of the body or from a point of reference. "Subcutaneous" specifically refers to tissue located beneath the skin, but it is not synonymously used to indicate proximity to the surface in the same way as "superficial." Hence, understanding these distinctions is crucial in clinical settings for accurate communication and treatment.