Profound grief

USAGE SUMMARY

"profound grief" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a very deep and intense feeling of sorrow or sadness. Example: "The loss of her beloved grandmother brought about a profound grief that she couldn't shake for months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The nation shares their profound grief with them.

The New York Times

In so doing, he considers forms of experience associated with trauma, schizophrenia, and profound grief.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Many animals display profound grief at the loss or absence of a relative or companion.

University of California, Berkeley

His extreme anger with her over her meddling is supposed to have caused her profound grief.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"This conference expresses profound grief over the tragedy which has no equal in history," he said.

Independent

He did, however, express feelings of "profound grief" and offered "eternal, sincere condolences".

Independent

The profound grief of loss of a good and wonderful person.

The Washington Post

The official Government press agency said he expressed "profound grief and sorrow" about the violence.

The New York Times

And there is no comfort in the prospect of financial security contingent upon profound grief.

The Guardian

The cards on the bouquets voiced anger, shock, and profound grief.

The New Yorker

But maybe it is a feature of profound grief that it seems to be yours alone.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "profound grief" to convey a sense of deep, impactful sorrow, particularly in formal or serious contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "profound grief" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly dramatic or insincere. Opt for simpler expressions like "great sadness" or "deep sorrow" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "profound grief" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "profound" intensifies the noun "grief". As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a conventional expression. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in expressing deep sorrow and loss.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "profound grief" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to express a deep and intense feeling of sorrow. Ludwig AI indicates that it effectively conveys a powerful sense of loss. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it is frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and encyclopedias, reflecting its suitability for formal and serious contexts. When writing, consider the context and audience to ensure the phrase's intensity is appropriate. While alternatives like "deep sorrow" or "intense sadness" might be suitable for less formal situations, "profound grief" remains a powerful descriptor for significant loss.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep sorrow

This alternative highlights the depth of the sadness, focusing on the emotional suffering.

crushing grief

This highlights the overwhelming and debilitating nature of the grief.

heartrending sorrow

This alternative emphasizes the emotional pain and distress caused by the grief.

intense anguish

This alternative emphasizes the severity and torment associated with the grief.

unfathomable sadness

This highlights the inability to fully grasp the depth of the sorrow.

great sadness

This is a more general term for sorrow, lacking the intensity of "profound grief".

extreme suffering

Emphasizes the pain and hardship experienced as a result of the grief.

overwhelming despair

This phrase focuses on the hopelessness and loss of spirit caused by the grief.

deep mourning

Focuses on the period of grieving and associated rituals or expressions of sorrow.

acute bereavement

This alternative is a more formal and clinical way to describe the experience of grief.

FAQs

How can I use "profound grief" in a sentence?

You can use "profound grief" to describe a deep and intense feeling of sorrow, such as: "The nation expressed its /s/profound+grief over the tragic loss" or "She was overcome with /s/profound+grief at the news of her friend's passing".

What's a less formal way to express "profound grief"?

Alternatives include "deep sorrow", "great sadness", or "intense sadness". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "profound grief" the same as "profound sadness"?

While similar, "profound grief" often implies a deeper and more enduring sorrow, typically associated with loss or bereavement. "Profound sadness" can refer to a general state of deep unhappiness.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "profound grief"?

It is appropriate when describing a significant loss or tragedy that evokes a deep and intense feeling of sorrow. This phrase is often used in formal statements, news reports, and obituaries, and is suitable for expressing sympathy and condolences.