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B1 adverb #29 most common 15 min read

deeply

Top 29

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips deeply in 30 Seconds

Explanation deeply in your Level:

At the A1 level, you might not use the word 'deeply' very often. Instead, you probably use the word 'very' to make your sentences stronger. For example, instead of saying 'I am deeply happy,' you would say 'I am very happy.' However, it is good to know that 'deeply' is like a much stronger version of 'very.' You can think of it as 'very, very much.' You might hear it in simple stories or when people talk about sleeping. If someone says, 'He is sleeping deeply,' it just means he is in a very strong sleep and won't wake up easily. It is a good word to start learning because it helps you express big feelings later on. Just remember that it usually goes before the word it is describing, like 'deeply sorry.'

As an A2 learner, you are starting to describe your feelings and experiences in more detail. 'Deeply' is a great word to add to your vocabulary because it helps you show that a feeling is not just a small thing. For example, if you say 'I am sorry,' it is okay, but if you say 'I am deeply sorry,' the other person knows you really mean it. You might also see this word when you read about nature or health. For example, a teacher might tell you to 'breathe deeply' during a gym class. This means to take a big, long breath. You are also starting to see it with words like 'moved' or 'interested.' If a movie makes you cry, you can say 'I was deeply moved.' This is a more advanced way to speak than just saying 'I liked the movie.'

At the B1 level, 'deeply' becomes a very useful tool for expressing complex emotions and opinions. You are expected to use a wider range of intensifiers, and 'deeply' is perfect for this. You should use it when you want to emphasize that something has a strong effect on you or someone else. Common phrases you should know include 'deeply concerned,' 'deeply regretted,' and 'deeply in love.' Notice how 'deeply' is often used with words that describe a state of mind or a feeling. It shows that the feeling is 'deep' inside the person, not just on the surface. You might also use it in more formal writing, like an email to a boss or a teacher, to show that you are serious about a topic. For example, 'I am deeply interested in this project.'

By the B2 level, you should be able to use 'deeply' with precision in both spoken and written English. You should understand that 'deeply' is often used to modify past participles (like 'affected,' 'involved,' or 'ingrained'). At this level, you can use it to discuss social and political issues. For instance, you might describe a community as 'deeply divided' over a new law. This shows a high level of fluency because you are using the word in a metaphorical way to describe a complex situation. You should also be aware of the difference between 'deeply' and other adverbs like 'profoundly' or 'thoroughly.' While they are similar, 'deeply' is often more emotional. You can also use it in compound adjectives like 'deeply-held beliefs' to add sophistication to your essays.

At the C1 level, your use of 'deeply' should reflect a nuanced understanding of register and collocation. You should be able to use it to create specific rhetorical effects. For example, in a persuasive speech, you might use 'deeply' to appeal to the audience's values: 'This is a deeply moral issue that we cannot ignore.' You should also be comfortable using it in academic contexts to describe the depth of research or the complexity of a theory, such as 'a deeply analytical approach.' At this level, you should also recognize when *not* to use it—avoiding it in casual slang or when a more specific word like 'acutely' or 'radically' might be more precise. Your ability to pair 'deeply' with sophisticated vocabulary will demonstrate your near-native command of the language.

For C2 learners, 'deeply' is a word that can be used to achieve subtle shades of meaning and stylistic elegance. You might use it to explore philosophical or psychological depths in your writing. For instance, you could discuss how a piece of literature 'deeply resonates' with the human condition, or how a historical event is 'deeply embedded' in the collective consciousness of a nation. You should be able to manipulate the word's placement for emphasis and rhythm, understanding how it contributes to the overall tone of a passage. At this level, you might also use it in ironic or highly formal ways to critique a situation, such as describing a 'deeply flawed' logic in an opponent's argument. Your use of 'deeply' should feel natural, purposeful, and perfectly integrated into your complex sentence structures.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

deeply in 30 Seconds

Deeply is an adverb used to show high intensity or a profound degree of a feeling, state, or action, often moving beyond the surface.
It commonly modifies emotions (deeply moved), states of being (deeply concerned), and physical actions like breathing or sleeping (breathe deeply).
In formal and professional contexts, it signals sincerity and thoroughness, making it a key word for serious communication and academic writing.
It differs from the adverb 'deep' which is usually reserved for physical distance or specific idiomatic expressions like 'to dig deep'.

The adverb deeply is a versatile and powerful tool in the English language, primarily used to express intensity, degree, or extent. While its root adjective 'deep' often refers to physical distance from a surface to the bottom, the adverbial form 'deeply' almost exclusively operates in the realm of the metaphorical and the emotional. When we say someone is deeply moved, we aren't talking about physical displacement; we are describing a profound internal shift that reaches the core of their being. This word acts as a bridge between the physical world of depth and the internal world of human experience, allowing speakers to quantify feelings that are otherwise difficult to measure. It is a 'booster' or 'intensifier' that carries more weight than 'very' or 'extremely' because it implies that the state or action has penetrated beneath the surface level of existence.

Emotional Intensity: Used to describe feelings that are felt strongly and sincerely, such as love, regret, or sadness. It suggests the emotion is not fleeting but rooted in the person's character.

The community was deeply affected by the news of the local library's closure, as it had been a sanctuary for generations.

Beyond emotions, 'deeply' is frequently employed in academic and professional contexts to describe the extent of analysis or the degree of involvement in a subject. To study something deeply means to go beyond the superficial facts and investigate the underlying causes and complex relationships. In this sense, it is synonymous with 'thoroughly' or 'exhaustively.' It is also a staple in political and social discourse, where issues are described as 'deeply divisive' or 'deeply rooted' in history. This usage emphasizes that the problems are not easily solved because they are embedded in the very structure of society. The word carries a sense of gravity and seriousness, making it a favorite for journalists and essayists who wish to convey the importance of a topic.

Intellectual Depth: Refers to the thoroughness of thought or investigation. It implies a level of focus that ignores distractions to reach a fundamental understanding.

She looked deeply into the data to find the hidden patterns that others had missed.

In physical contexts, 'deeply' is less common than 'deep' but still essential for specific actions. For instance, 'breathing deeply' is a standard instruction in yoga or medical exams. Here, it describes the physical act of filling the lungs to their maximum capacity. Similarly, 'digging deeply' can be literal, though it is often used as a metaphor for searching for the truth. The distinction between 'deep' and 'deeply' in physical contexts can be tricky; 'deep' is often used as a flat adverb (e.g., 'to dig deep'), while 'deeply' is used when the action itself is being modified with a focus on the manner or intensity. Understanding this nuance is key for learners moving from B1 to B2 levels, as it demonstrates a grasp of stylistic choice.

The doctor asked the patient to inhale deeply so she could listen to his lungs clearly.

Physical Extension: Relates to physical movement or states that reach far inward or downward, often used with verbs of breathing or sleeping.

After the long hike, he fell into a deeply restorative sleep that lasted ten hours.

The CEO was deeply committed to the new environmental sustainability goals.

Finally, 'deeply' serves as a marker of sincerity. In formal apologies or expressions of gratitude, adding 'deeply' transforms a standard phrase into a heartfelt sentiment. 'I am sorry' is polite; 'I am deeply sorry' conveys a sense of personal responsibility and genuine remorse. This makes it an essential word for navigating complex social interactions where tone and perceived sincerity are paramount. It is a word that demands attention and respect, signaling to the listener that what follows is of significant importance.

Using 'deeply' correctly requires an understanding of its placement within a sentence and the types of words it typically modifies. As an adverb of degree, it most frequently appears before an adjective or a past participle. For example, in the phrase 'deeply concerned,' 'deeply' modifies the state of being concerned, indicating that the concern is not minor but significant. This pattern is consistent across many common collocations. When used with a verb, it often follows the verb, especially in phrases like 'to breathe deeply' or 'to care deeply.' However, in more formal or literary styles, it can precede the verb for emphasis, as in 'He deeply regretted his decision.'

Before Adjectives/Participles: This is the most common position. It intensifies the quality that follows. Example: 'The water was deeply blue.'

The film's ending was deeply moving, leaving the entire audience in tears.

When constructing sentences with 'deeply,' it is important to avoid redundancy. Since 'deeply' already implies a high degree, pairing it with other intensifiers like 'very' (e.g., 'very deeply') is often unnecessary and can sound cluttered, though it is grammatically possible. Instead, focus on choosing the right verb or adjective to pair it with. 'Deeply' works best with words that have an emotional or structural weight. You wouldn't usually say you are 'deeply hungry' (use 'starving' or 'very hungry' instead), but you would say you are 'deeply offended.' The word 'deeply' elevates the tone of the sentence, making it more suitable for serious discussions than for casual, everyday observations.

With Verbs of Emotion: Pairs perfectly with verbs like love, hate, respect, and regret. It shows the emotion comes from a place of conviction.

I deeply appreciate the time you took to mentor me during my internship.

In passive voice constructions, 'deeply' usually sits between the auxiliary verb 'be' and the main verb. For example, 'The community was deeply impacted.' This is a standard structure in news reporting and academic writing. It allows the writer to focus on the subject being affected while still emphasizing the severity of the impact. Another interesting use is in compound adjectives, such as 'deeply-held beliefs.' Here, 'deeply' is hyphenated with the participle to create a single descriptive unit that modifies a noun. This structure is very common in political and religious contexts to describe values that are central to a person's identity.

These deeply-held convictions are what drive her to advocate for social justice.

Passive Voice Placement: Subject + to be + deeply + past participle. This emphasizes the effect on the subject.

The project was deeply flawed from the beginning due to a lack of funding.

He sighed deeply, realizing that the journey ahead would be much harder than expected.

Finally, consider the rhythm of your sentence. 'Deeply' is a two-syllable word with the stress on the first syllable (DEEP-ly). This trochaic rhythm can add a poetic or dramatic flair to your speech. When you say 'I deeply love you,' the emphasis on 'deeply' slows down the sentence, giving the listener time to absorb the weight of the statement. This is why 'deeply' is so prevalent in literature and dramatic scripts—it creates a natural pause that heightens the emotional stakes.

In the real world, 'deeply' is a staple of formal communication, storytelling, and emotional expression. You will hear it frequently in news broadcasts when reporters describe the public's reaction to a major event. For example, 'The nation is deeply saddened by the passing of the former president.' In this context, 'deeply' serves to validate the collective grief of a population. It is also common in political speeches, where leaders use it to express their commitment to a cause or their concern about a crisis. Phrases like 'deeply committed to peace' or 'deeply troubled by the recent developments' are standard in diplomatic language, providing a way to convey serious intent without using overly aggressive words.

News and Media: Used to describe the severity of social issues or the intensity of public emotion. It adds a layer of gravity to the reporting.

The journalist reported that the scandal had deeply damaged the trust between the government and the citizens.

In the workplace, 'deeply' appears in performance reviews and professional correspondence. A manager might write that they are 'deeply impressed' by an employee's progress, or a company might issue a statement saying they 'deeply regret' a service outage. In these cases, the word is used to show that the sentiment is not just a formality but is based on a thorough evaluation of the situation. It helps to build rapport and trust by signaling a high level of engagement. However, in very casual settings, like a group of friends talking about a movie, 'deeply' might sound a bit too formal. Instead of saying 'I was deeply entertained,' a native speaker would more likely say 'I really liked it' or 'It was awesome.'

Professional Contexts: Used in feedback, apologies, and mission statements to convey sincerity and thoroughness.

During the interview, the artist spoke deeply about the personal struggles that inspired her latest album.

Literature and film are perhaps the most fertile ground for 'deeply.' Authors use it to describe the inner lives of their characters, often pairing it with verbs of perception or thought. A character might 'deeply suspect' a betrayal or 'deeply yearn' for a lost home. In movies, the word often appears in pivotal scenes—the climactic confession of love or the tragic realization of a mistake. Because 'deeply' suggests something that is hidden beneath the surface, it is the perfect word for exploring themes of secrets, psychology, and the human soul. When you hear it in a movie, it is usually a signal that the scene is emotionally significant.

In the novel, the protagonist's deeply ingrained habits eventually lead to his downfall.

Creative Writing: Used to add psychological depth to characters and to describe settings with intense sensory details.

The forest was deeply silent, as if the trees themselves were holding their breath.

The smell of the old house was deeply nostalgic, bringing back memories of his childhood summers.

Lastly, you'll encounter 'deeply' in the world of wellness and meditation. Instructions like 'inhale deeply' or 'sink deeply into the floor' are common. Here, the word is used to encourage a physical and mental state of relaxation and presence. It emphasizes the transition from a state of superficial, scattered thought to one of focused, grounded awareness. Whether in a yoga studio or a hospital, 'deeply' is the word of choice for actions that require our full, undivided attention.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 'deep' and 'deeply' when they are used as adverbs. While 'deep' can function as an adverb (a 'flat adverb'), its usage is much more restricted than 'deeply.' 'Deep' is typically used for physical distance or in specific idiomatic expressions like 'to dig deep' or 'to run deep.' For example, you would say 'The roots go deep into the earth.' However, when you want to describe the *manner* of an action or an emotional state, 'deeply' is the correct choice. Saying 'I am deep sorry' is a common error; it must be 'I am deeply sorry.' The '-ly' suffix is essential for conveying the metaphorical intensity that 'deeply' provides.

Deep vs. Deeply: 'Deep' is for physical position or idiomatic phrases. 'Deeply' is for emotional intensity, thoroughness, and modifying adjectives.

Incorrect: He was deep offended.
Correct: He was deeply offended.

Another mistake is using 'deeply' with adjectives that don't match its 'weight.' Adverbs like 'deeply' and 'profoundly' are heavy; they carry a lot of emotional and intellectual baggage. Using them with trivial or lighthearted adjectives can sound strange or even sarcastic. For instance, 'I am deeply happy that it's Friday' sounds a bit dramatic unless you've had a truly horrific week. In most cases, 'very happy' or 'really glad' is more appropriate. 'Deeply' should be reserved for things that have a significant impact on your life, your values, or your understanding of the world. Overusing it can also lead to 'word fatigue,' where the word loses its power because it's applied to everything.

Inappropriate Register: Avoid using 'deeply' for minor or casual situations. It is a 'high-register' word that demands a serious context.

Incorrect: This pizza is deeply tasty.
Correct: This pizza is really tasty.

Word order can also be a stumbling block. While 'deeply' is flexible, placing it too far from the word it modifies can lead to ambiguity. In the sentence 'He thought about the problem deeply in the library,' it's clear that 'deeply' modifies 'thought.' But in 'He deeply thought about the problem,' the emphasis shifts slightly to the act of thinking itself. As a general rule, place 'deeply' immediately before the adjective or participle it modifies, or immediately after the verb. Avoid putting it between a verb and its direct object (e.g., 'He loved deeply her' is incorrect; it should be 'He loved her deeply').

Incorrect: I deeply want a coffee.
Correct: I really want a coffee.

Misplacement with Objects: Do not place 'deeply' between a verb and its object. It should come after the object or before the verb.

Correct: She deeply respects her teacher.
Correct: She respects her teacher deeply.

Finally, be careful with 'deeply' in comparisons. You can say 'more deeply' or 'most deeply,' but you cannot say 'deeplier.' For example, 'She felt the loss more deeply than her brother.' Using the '-er' or '-est' endings is only for the adjective 'deep' (e.g., 'the deepest part of the ocean'). Remembering that 'deeply' always uses 'more' or 'most' for comparison will help you maintain grammatical accuracy in complex sentences.

While 'deeply' is a fantastic word, sometimes you need a synonym to avoid repetition or to hit a slightly different nuance. The most common alternative is 'profoundly.' 'Profoundly' is even more formal than 'deeply' and often implies a change that is fundamental or life-altering. If 'deeply' describes the intensity of a feeling, 'profoundly' describes the depth of its impact. For example, 'The discovery profoundly changed our understanding of the universe.' Another close relative is 'greatly,' which is more neutral and can be used in a wider variety of contexts, though it lacks the emotional 'soul' that 'deeply' carries.

Deeply vs. Profoundly: 'Deeply' focuses on the intensity of the state. 'Profoundly' focuses on the significance or the fundamental nature of the change.

While he was deeply upset, the experience profoundly influenced his later work as a writer.

In academic writing, you might choose 'thoroughly' or 'extensively' when referring to research or analysis. These words focus on the scope and detail of the work rather than the emotion behind it. If you say you 'thoroughly investigated' a claim, it sounds more objective and scientific than saying you 'deeply investigated' it. On the other hand, in creative writing, you might use 'intensely' to describe a sudden, sharp feeling. 'Intensely' has a sense of energy and vibration that 'deeply'—which is more stable and enduring—does not. 'Deeply' is a slow burn; 'intensely' is a bright flame.

Deeply vs. Thoroughly: 'Deeply' implies a vertical descent into the core. 'Thoroughly' implies a horizontal coverage of every single part.

The detective thoroughly searched the room, but he was deeply confused by the lack of evidence.

For physical depth, 'way down' or 'far' are common informal alternatives. Instead of 'The needle went deeply into the skin,' you might say 'The needle went far into the skin.' In very formal or poetic contexts, you might see 'innermost' or 'at heart.' For example, 'He is a kind man at heart' conveys a similar meaning to 'He is deeply kind.' Understanding these alternatives allows you to tailor your language to your audience, ensuring that your message is not only understood but also felt in the way you intended.

The roots of the old oak tree extend far into the ground, making it nearly impossible to remove.

Register Comparison: Informal: Really, very, way.
Neutral: Greatly, strongly.
Formal: Deeply, profoundly, extensively.

She was strongly opposed to the new policy, but her colleague was deeply offended by it.

Finally, consider the word 'sincerely.' In the context of apologies or thanks, 'sincerely' and 'deeply' are often interchangeable. 'I deeply appreciate it' and 'I sincerely appreciate it' both convey a high level of gratitude. However, 'sincerely' focuses on the honesty of the speaker, while 'deeply' focuses on the intensity of the feeling itself. Choosing between them depends on whether you want to emphasize your truthfulness or the power of your emotion.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"We are deeply indebted to our sponsors for their support."

Neutral

"She was deeply moved by the documentary."

Informal

"I'm deeply into this new show."

Child friendly

"The bear was sleeping deeply in his cave."

Slang

"That's deeply weird, man."

Fun Fact

The word 'deep' is related to the word 'dip', which makes sense because you dip things into deep water!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈdiːp.li/

US /ˈdiːp.li/

First syllable: DEEP-ly

Rhymes With

steeply cheaply reaply sleeply keeply peeply beeply heaply

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'deep-lie'.
Failing to make the 'ee' sound long enough.
Adding an extra vowel sound between 'p' and 'l'.
Stress on the second syllable.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'deeply' and 'deply'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in context as an intensifier.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of correct collocations and register.

Speaking 3/5

Natural placement in speech takes some practice.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

deep very much really feel

Learn Next

profoundly thoroughly intensely acutely extensively

Advanced

visceral ingrained entrenched evocative resonant

Grammar to Know

Adverbs of Degree

Deeply tells us 'how much' someone is moved.

Flat Adverbs

Difference between 'dig deep' (flat) and 'breathe deeply' (standard).

Hyphenating Compound Adjectives

Use a hyphen in 'deeply-held beliefs' when it comes before a noun.

Placement with Auxiliary Verbs

He has deeply regretted his choice (between auxiliary and main verb).

Comparison of Adverbs

Use 'more deeply' and 'most deeply', not 'deeplier'.

Examples by Level

He is sleeping deeply.

Il dort profondément.

Adverb modifying the verb 'sleeping'.

I am deeply sorry.

Je suis vraiment désolé.

Adverb modifying the adjective 'sorry'.

She loves him deeply.

Elle l'aime profondément.

Adverb following the verb for emphasis.

The water is deeply blue.

L'eau est d'un bleu profond.

Adverb modifying the color adjective 'blue'.

Breathe deeply now.

Respirez profondément maintenant.

Imperative sentence with adverbial modifier.

They are deeply happy.

Ils sont très heureux.

Used as a strong intensifier for 'happy'.

The snow is deeply piled.

La neige est amoncelée en profondeur.

Physical description using 'deeply'.

He sighed deeply.

Il a soupiré profondément.

Modifying the action of sighing.

I was deeply moved by the story.

J'ai été profondément ému par l'histoire.

Passive voice: was + deeply + moved.

She is deeply interested in art.

Elle s'intéresse vivement à l'art.

Modifying the adjective 'interested'.

The roots go deeply into the soil.

Les racines s'enfoncent profondément dans le sol.

Physical adverbial usage.

He felt deeply ashamed of his mistake.

Il se sentait profondément honteux de son erreur.

Modifying the adjective 'ashamed'.

We are deeply grateful for your help.

Nous vous sommes profondément reconnaissants pour votre aide.

Formal expression of thanks.

The forest was deeply quiet.

La forêt était d'un calme profond.

Adding atmosphere to a description.

She looked deeply into his eyes.

Elle l'a regardé profondément dans les yeux.

Describing the manner of looking.

The news deeply saddened the family.

La nouvelle a profondément attristé la famille.

Adverb preceding the verb for emphasis.

The company is deeply committed to safety.

L'entreprise est fermement engagée en faveur de la sécurité.

Common professional collocation.

I deeply regret not visiting my grandmother more.

Je regrette profondément de ne pas avoir rendu visite à ma grand-mère plus souvent.

Expressing sincere personal regret.

They have been deeply in love for fifty years.

Ils sont profondément amoureux depuis cinquante ans.

Idiomatic phrase 'deeply in love'.

The issue is deeply complex and needs time.

Le problème est profondément complexe et demande du temps.

Modifying an abstract adjective.

He was deeply offended by the comment.

Il a été profondément offensé par le commentaire.

Describing a strong negative reaction.

The film explores deeply personal themes.

Le film explore des thèmes profondément personnels.

Modifying an adjective that describes content.

She thought deeply before answering the question.

Elle a réfléchi mûrement avant de répondre à la question.

Describing the intensity of thought.

The community was deeply affected by the flood.

La communauté a été profondément touchée par l'inondation.

Describing the extent of an impact.

The country remains deeply divided over the election.

Le pays reste profondément divisé sur l'élection.

Describing a social or political state.

These are deeply-held beliefs that won't change easily.

Ce sont des convictions profondément ancrées qui ne changeront pas facilement.

Compound adjective with a hyphen.

The scientist deeply analyzed the chemical samples.

Le scientifique a analysé en profondeur les échantillons chimiques.

Describing thorough professional work.

His words were deeply hurtful to his sister.

Ses paroles ont été profondément blessantes pour sa sœur.

Modifying an adjective of impact.

The tradition is deeply rooted in local culture.

La tradition est profondément ancrée dans la culture locale.

Metaphorical use of 'rooted'.

I am deeply concerned about the environment.

Je suis vivement préoccupé par l'environnement.

Expressing a serious opinion.

The poem is deeply symbolic of the human soul.

Le poème est profondément symbolique de l'âme humaine.

Literary analysis usage.

She felt a deeply satisfying sense of achievement.

Elle a ressenti un sentiment d'accomplissement profondément satisfaisant.

Modifying a complex emotional state.

The report was deeply critical of the government's response.

Le rapport était très critique à l'égard de la réponse du gouvernement.

Formal academic/journalistic usage.

Her music is deeply resonant with younger audiences.

Sa musique trouve un profond écho auprès du jeune public.

Describing a connection or impact.

The system is deeply flawed and requires a total overhaul.

Le système est profondément défectueux et nécessite une refonte totale.

Strong negative evaluation.

He spoke deeply and eloquently about social justice.

Il a parlé avec profondeur et éloquence de la justice sociale.

Pairing with another adverb for style.

The trauma was deeply embedded in his subconscious.

Le traumatisme était profondément ancré dans son subconscient.

Psychological terminology.

The two theories are deeply incompatible.

Les deux théories sont profondément incompatibles.

Describing a fundamental difference.

She was deeply suspicious of his sudden kindness.

Elle se méfiait beaucoup de sa soudaine gentillesse.

Describing an intense mental state.

The valley was deeply shrouded in a thick morning mist.

La vallée était profondément enveloppée d'une épaisse brume matinale.

Poetic descriptive usage.

The decision was deeply unpopular among the electorate.

La décision a été extrêmement impopulaire auprès de l'électorat.

Political analysis register.

His philosophy is deeply indebted to the works of Plato.

Sa philosophie est profondément redevable aux œuvres de Platon.

Academic idiom 'indebted to'.

The architecture is deeply evocative of the Victorian era.

L'architecture évoque profondément l'époque victorienne.

Describing an aesthetic effect.

She was deeply immersed in the study of ancient languages.

Elle était profondément plongée dans l'étude des langues anciennes.

Describing total focus or involvement.

The silence in the room was deeply unsettling.

Le silence dans la pièce était profondément troublant.

Creating a specific mood or atmosphere.

The author's prose is deeply layered with hidden meanings.

La prose de l'auteur est profondément structurée avec des significations cachées.

Literary criticism terminology.

The conflict is deeply enmeshed in historical grievances.

Le conflit est profondément enchevêtré dans des griefs historiques.

Describing complex, interconnected problems.

He felt a deeply visceral reaction to the injustice.

Il a ressenti une réaction profondément viscérale face à l'injustice.

Using 'visceral' to show physical/emotional depth.

Common Collocations

deeply moved

deeply concerned

deeply regretted

deeply rooted

deeply affected

breathe deeply

deeply divided

deeply ingrained

deeply suspicious

deeply flawed

Common Phrases

deeply in love

— To have very strong romantic feelings for someone.

They have been deeply in love since they met in college.

deeply in debt

— To owe a very large amount of money.

After the business failed, he found himself deeply in debt.

deeply religious

— To have very strong religious beliefs and practices.

She comes from a deeply religious family.

deeply ashamed

— To feel a great amount of guilt or embarrassment.

He was deeply ashamed of how he had treated his friend.

deeply offended

— To feel very insulted or hurt by someone's words.

She was deeply offended by his rude joke.

deeply committed

— To be very dedicated to a person, cause, or goal.

The team is deeply committed to winning the championship.

deeply hidden

— To be buried far below the surface or kept very secret.

The truth was deeply hidden for many years.

deeply felt

— Used to describe a belief or emotion that is sincere.

It was a deeply felt tribute to the fallen soldiers.

deeply personal

— Something that is very private and important to an individual.

The artist's work is deeply personal and reflective.

deeply analytical

— Involving a very thorough and detailed examination.

He has a deeply analytical mind.

Often Confused With

deeply vs deep

Deep is often an adjective or a flat adverb (dig deep). Deeply is the standard adverb for intensity.

deeply vs profoundly

Profoundly is more formal and implies a fundamental change.

deeply vs thoroughly

Thoroughly focuses on the completion of a task, while deeply focuses on intensity.

Idioms & Expressions

"deeply ingrained"

— Firmly fixed or established; difficult to change.

The fear of spiders was deeply ingrained in her mind.

Neutral

"deeply in the red"

— To be in a state of owing a lot of money (financial).

The company is deeply in the red this quarter.

Business

"deeply moved to tears"

— To be so emotionally affected that one starts crying.

The audience was deeply moved to tears by the performance.

Literary

"deeply entrenched"

— Firmly established and unlikely to change (often about ideas).

The bureaucracy is deeply entrenched in the system.

Formal

"deeply held"

— Used to describe beliefs or convictions that are very important to someone.

He spoke about his deeply held values.

Neutral

"deeply buried"

— Hidden very well, either physically or psychologically.

The secret was deeply buried in the archives.

Neutral

"deeply suspicious"

— Having a very strong feeling that something is wrong or dishonest.

The police were deeply suspicious of his alibi.

Neutral

"deeply divided"

— Having very strong and opposing opinions within a group.

The nation is deeply divided on the new policy.

Journalistic

"deeply troubled"

— Feeling very worried, unhappy, or mentally distressed.

He was a deeply troubled young man.

Neutral

"deeply involved"

— Taking a very active and significant part in something.

She is deeply involved in local politics.

Neutral

Easily Confused

deeply vs deep

Both can be adverbs.

Deep is used for physical distance or idioms; deeply is for intensity and emotions.

The well is deep. He was deeply moved.

deeply vs profoundly

They have very similar meanings.

Profoundly is higher register and suggests a deeper, more permanent change.

The news deeply saddened him. The news profoundly changed him.

deeply vs strongly

Both are intensifiers.

Strongly is more about force or conviction; deeply is more about internal feeling.

I strongly disagree. I deeply care.

deeply vs intensely

Both show high degree.

Intensely is more about the energy or brightness of a feeling; deeply is about its roots.

He stared intensely. He loved deeply.

deeply vs greatly

Both mean 'very much'.

Greatly is more neutral and less emotional than deeply.

It helped greatly. It moved me deeply.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + is + deeply + adjective

He is deeply sorry.

Subject + verb + deeply

She breathes deeply.

Subject + was + deeply + past participle

I was deeply moved.

Deeply + past participle + noun

Deeply-held beliefs are important.

Subject + deeply + verb + object

They deeply appreciate your help.

Adverbial phrase + deeply + adjective

The system is fundamentally and deeply flawed.

Subject + deeply + regret + gerund

I deeply regret saying that.

Subject + feel + deeply + adjective

He felt deeply offended.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both written and spoken English, especially in serious contexts.

Common Mistakes

I am deep sorry. → I am deeply sorry.
You must use the adverbial form '-ly' to modify the adjective 'sorry'.
He was deeplier moved. → He was more deeply moved.
Adverbs ending in '-ly' use 'more' and 'most' for comparison.
I deeply want a sandwich. → I really want a sandwich.
'Deeply' doesn't usually modify simple desires like 'wanting food'.
He loved deeply her. → He loved her deeply.
Do not place an adverb between a verb and its direct object.
The roots go deeply. → The roots go deep.
In physical contexts of position, the flat adverb 'deep' is often preferred.

Tips

Avoid Redundancy

Don't use 'deeply' with words that already imply depth, like 'profound.' 'Deeply profound' is unnecessary.

Check Placement

Place 'deeply' before the adjective it modifies for the most natural sound.

Use with Participles

Pair 'deeply' with past participles like 'affected,' 'concerned,' or 'moved' for professional-sounding English.

Emotional Tone

Use 'deeply' when you want to show you are being sincere and not just polite.

Formal Letters

In a formal letter, 'I deeply appreciate' sounds much better than 'Thanks a lot'.

Context Clues

When you see 'deeply,' look for the word it modifies to understand the specific type of intensity being described.

The Ocean Rule

Think of the deep ocean. 'Deeply' means the feeling goes all the way to the bottom.

Common Pairs

Memorize 'deeply moved' and 'deeply sorry' as single units of meaning.

Professionalism

Use 'deeply' in performance reviews to give meaningful feedback.

Deeply vs. Very

If the feeling is temporary, use 'very.' If it's lasting, use 'deeply'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Deep Sea' diver. Just as they go far down into the ocean, 'deeply' means your feelings go far down into your heart.

Visual Association

Imagine a tree with roots that go very far into the ground. Those roots are 'deeply' rooted.

Word Web

Emotion Intensity Depth Sincerity Analysis Sleep Breathing Belief

Challenge

Try to use 'deeply' three times today: once for a feeling, once for an action, and once in a professional context.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English word 'deope', which comes from the Proto-Germanic 'deupaz'. The suffix '-ly' was added later to form the adverbial form.

Original meaning: The original meaning was purely physical, referring to distance from the surface to the bottom.

Germanic

Cultural Context

Be careful using 'deeply' with negative traits (e.g., 'deeply stupid') as it can be very insulting.

Commonly used in formal speeches, literature, and sincere personal communication.

The phrase 'deeply in love' appears in countless love songs and romantic movies. In 'The Great Gatsby', characters often have deeply-held secrets. Martin Luther King Jr. used 'deeply' to emphasize the moral weight of civil rights.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Emotional Reactions

deeply moved
deeply saddened
deeply offended
deeply hurt

Physical Actions

breathe deeply
sleep deeply
sigh deeply
inhale deeply

Professional/Academic

deeply concerned
deeply committed
deeply analyzed
deeply flawed

Beliefs and Values

deeply held beliefs
deeply religious
deeply rooted
deeply ingrained

Relationships

deeply in love
deeply respect
deeply care
deeply appreciate

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever been deeply moved by a piece of music or a film?"

"What are some deeply-held beliefs that you think everyone should have?"

"Is there a place you've visited that you felt deeply connected to?"

"How do you feel when you see someone being deeply disrespectful?"

"What is a subject you would like to study more deeply in the future?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you were deeply sorry for something you did and how you fixed it.

Describe a person you deeply respect and explain why they have such an impact on you.

Reflect on a deeply-held value that guides your daily decisions.

Write about a book that deeply changed the way you think about the world.

Describe a moment of deeply restorative peace you experienced recently.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can, but it is often redundant. 'Deeply' is already very strong. Use it only if you want extreme emphasis.

Yes, 'deeply' is the adverbial form of the adjective 'deep'.

Both are used, but 'breathe deeply' is more grammatically standard. 'Breathe deep' is more common in casual speech or songs.

Yes! You can be deeply happy, deeply in love, or deeply grateful. However, it is very common with negative emotions too.

It is more formal than 'very' or 'really,' but it is used in neutral everyday speech as well.

It's better to say 'I really want' or 'I strongly desire.' 'Deeply' doesn't collocate well with 'want'.

It means something is firmly established and very difficult to change, like a tradition or a problem.

Use 'more deeply' for the comparative and 'most deeply' for the superlative.

No, adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. To modify a noun, use the adjective 'deep'.

Yes, it is often used to describe the depth of analysis or the impact of a theory.