deep - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
deep Word Meanings
- having a long distance from the top to the bottom
- not shallow
- intensely profound
deep Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
deep Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/diːp/
US
/dip/
deep Word Etymology
Deep: from Old English 'dēope' (meaning 'profound'), related to the Proto-Germanic '*deupaz', which conveys a sense of depth and intensity. Imagine a vast ocean, symbolizing depth, with mysteries lurking below the surface.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I press my palm against the edge of a table and lean forward. I move my gaze downward, letting the space seem to stretch deeper, as if distance could hide there. I push a thought forward, adjust my posture, and keep my focus steady. The moment settles in as a felt impression of distance and weight, not a rule I have to learn.
Real Context
Deep describes a large distance from top to bottom, as in deep water or a deep hole. It also means not shallow, implying substantial depth. Beyond the physical sense, deep can refer to ideas, feelings, or problems that are profound, intricate, or serious. The word works with physical nouns (a deep canyon) and with abstract nouns (deep meaning, deep questions). It can be used as an adjective, as in a deep ocean, and as an adverb in compounds like deeply concerned. Learners should note common collocations such as a deep breath, deep sleep, or deep thought. Be careful not to confuse depth with size or intensity in ways that feel unnatural in your language.
Usage Reminders
- Use deep for physical distance and for abstract depth
- Pair with deeply to modify verbs strongly
- Don't confuse deep with wide or far in figurative sense
- Remember deep breath, deep sleep, and deep thought
- Watch for contrasting depth with surface or height
Common Misconceptions
- Deep always means physically long distance
- Deep and wide are interchangeable in metaphors
- Deep is the same as strong or large in all contexts
- Deep cannot describe feelings or ideas
- Deep is only used with water or holes
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: depth is not only distance but also intensity or complexity; learners often misread deep as a simple size word and apply it in shallow contexts.
Learning Tips
- Practice both physical and metaphorical uses in sentences
- Pair with deeply when emphasizing action
- memorize common collocations
- Differentiate depth from size in context
- Learn synonyms like profound and intense for nuance
- Use visual/metaphor cues to remember depth
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'deep' mean?
A.Fish
B.Shallow
C.Surface
D.Tree
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'deep' correctly?
A.He dug a deep hole in the sky.
B.The deep was filled with books.
C.The cat swam in the deep ocean.
D.She climbed the deep mountain.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'deep'?
A.Sad
B.Vast
C.Loud
D.Tall
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'deep'?
A.Fast
B.Bright
C.Shallow
D.Wide
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where the word 'deep' applies?
A.The pool was empty.
B.The sky was clear.
C.The well was deep.
D.The conversation was short.
Related Listening
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🔥 Advanced
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