deep down

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Word: Deep down

Part of Speech: Adverb

Meaning: "Deep down" means at a very basic or true level, often referring to someone’s feelings or beliefs that may not be obvious on the surface. It suggests that beneath what someone shows or expresses outwardly, there is a deeper truth.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "deep down" to talk about a person's true feelings, thoughts, or nature, especially when those feelings are hidden or not immediately apparent.
• It is often used in conversations about emotions or character.

Example:

• "She seems very strict, but deep down, she really cares about her students."

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "deep down" in more complex sentences to emphasize the contrast between outward behavior and inner feelings.
• Example: "He acts tough, but deep down, he is afraid of being alone."

Word Variants:

• Deep (adjective): Meaning far down or far below the surface.
• Down (adverb): Referring to a lower place or position.

Different Meanings:

• While "deep down" primarily refers to emotions or beliefs, it can also describe physical depth in some contexts, but this is less common.

Synonyms:

• At heart
• Fundamentally
• Essentially
• Inwardly

Idioms:

• "At heart": Similar in meaning, used to express someone’s true nature.
  • Example: "At heart, he is a very gentle person."
• "Underneath it all": Referring to the hidden truth about someone or something.
  • Example: "Underneath it all, she is very insecure."

Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no direct phrasal verbs that match "deep down," but you might encounter phrases like "dig deep" which means to look for deeper understanding or truth.

Academic

Adverb

1. in reality
   • she is very kind at heart

Synonyms

• at heart
• at bottom
• inside
• in spite of appearance