In a deeper sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In a deeper sense" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that there is some additional understanding or significance beyond the primary meaning of a concept. For example: "In a deeper sense, the story of small-town life is really a story of the triumph of the human spirit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

In a deeper sense, so was Spain.

The Economist

In a deeper, sense, then, perhaps Edison will have the last laugh, after all.

The Economist

In a deeper sense, Ms Coakley has come to be seen as an aloof patrician, "anointed" by the late Ted Kennedy and unwilling to engage in mere politics.

The Economist

In a deeper sense, the orchestra watches over them, benign and forgiving, seeming to love its characters with the same indulgence with which Tolstoy loved his.

The New York Times - Arts

In a deeper sense, however, it is a tale of two diseases — one of the mind, one of the body — that alternately challenged their marriage.

The New York Times - Books

In a deeper sense, Mr. Santorum has what one top Iowa Republican described as a "minivan" problem, which he himself admits: He does not have the political equivalent of sex appeal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

For the majority of those interviewed, the air campaign ushered in a deep sense of foreboding that seemed to replace last month's horror and shock.

The New York Times

It's an effective way to bring in people with a deeper sense of ownership in the venture.

Huffington Post

"In a deep sense," he concludes, "we all do live in Gödel's universe".

The New Yorker

In a deep sense, the priest here comes very close to enunciating the sentiment behind both the technical feat that Wallace was attempting in this book as well as its implicit thematic argument.

The Guardian - Books

In time, of course, a deeper sense of the region you are covering as a correspondent emerges.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "In a deeper sense", ensure that the subsequent explanation clearly articulates the additional layer of meaning you intend to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "In a deeper sense" gratuitously; it should only be employed when there's a genuine need to offer a more profound or subtle understanding. If the deeper meaning is not apparent or clearly articulated, the phrase can sound pretentious or confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In a deeper sense" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a more profound or nuanced interpretation of a situation, idea, or concept. It serves to signal that what follows is not immediately apparent and requires a more thoughtful analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Books

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Arts

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "In a deeper sense" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce a more profound, nuanced, or less obvious interpretation. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and utility. Its use encourages deeper reflection, signaling that what follows requires careful consideration. While appropriate across various registers, it's commonly found in News & Media, Books, and Scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the subsequent explanation clearly articulates the additional layers of meaning you intend to convey and avoid overuse without clear justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On a more profound level

Focuses on the depth of understanding or impact.

At a fundamental level

Highlights the basic or essential nature of something.

From a philosophical standpoint

Emphasizes a theoretical or abstract perspective.

In essence

Conveys the core or most important aspect.

More meaningfully

Indicates greater significance or importance.

With greater insight

Suggests a more informed or perceptive understanding.

Looking beyond the surface

Emphasizes the importance of considering underlying factors or implications.

In a more thorough analysis

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the examination.

From a more enlightened perspective

Implies a greater understanding or awareness.

More intrinsically

Indicates an inherent or essential quality.

FAQs

How can I use "In a deeper sense" in a sentence?

Use "In a deeper sense" to introduce an interpretation that goes beyond the surface level. For example, "The policy change seems minor, but "in a deeper sense", it represents a fundamental shift in priorities."

What phrases are similar to "In a deeper sense"?

Alternatives include "on a more profound level", "at a fundamental level", or "in essence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "In a deeper sense" when offering a complex interpretation?

No, but it's a helpful signal to the reader that you're about to move beyond the obvious. If the deeper meaning is easily understood from the context, the phrase may not be needed.

What is the difference between "In a deeper sense" and "In a broad sense"?

"In a deeper sense" introduces a more profound or nuanced meaning, while "In a broad sense" provides a more general or encompassing interpretation. For example, compare: "In a deeper sense, the character's journey represents the search for self-acceptance" versus "In a broader sense, the novel explores themes of societal change".