at heart

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Sure! Let's break down the phrase "at heart" in a simple way.

Definition:

"At heart" is an adverbial phrase that means in reality or fundamentally. It describes someone's true nature or feelings, even if they might not show it on the outside.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "at heart" to express what someone really is like, regardless of their actions or words.
• It is often used when you want to highlight the true feelings or character of a person.

Example:

• "Although he seems strict, he is very kind at heart."(This means that even though he appears strict, his true nature is kind.)

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "at heart" when discussing deeper qualities or feelings, especially in contrast to outward behavior. For example:
  • "She acts tough, but she's a romantic at heart."

Word Variants:

• The phrase "at heart" does not have direct variants, but you can use related phrases like "deep down" or "in essence" for similar meanings.

Different Meanings:

• "At heart" specifically refers to someone's true nature, so it doesn't have different meanings but is focused on character.

Synonyms:

• Deep down
• Fundamentally
• Essentially
• In essence

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While "at heart" itself is not part of an idiom, it can be combined with other phrases:
  • "At heart" + adjective (e.g., "at heart, she is generous.")

Summary:

"At heart" is a useful phrase to express how someone truly is inside, regardless of how they might appear on the outside.

Academic

Adverb

1. in reality
   • she is very kind at heart

Synonyms

• at bottom
• deep down
• inside
• in spite of appearance