a deep-seated conviction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deep-seated conviction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a belief or opinion that is firmly held and unlikely to change. Example: "Her decision to advocate for environmental protection stems from a deep-seated conviction that we must preserve our planet for future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Such a deep-seated conviction is entitled to great respect.

Cornell University

They involve a deep-seated conviction that a food is absolutely right, and always has been, and always will be".

The New York Times

Monolingualism – the condition of being able to speak only one language – is regularly accompanied by a deep-seated conviction in the value of that language over all others.

Yale University

Mr. Kearns was apparently driven by a deep-seated conviction that he was being deprived not just of money but of his very identity as an inventor.

The New York Times

Speaking in answer to a question at a news conference, Cardinal George said, "There's a deep-seated conviction, certainly on the part of anyone who has been a pastor, that this has to be continually addressed".

The New York Times

In the United States, the rising role of the state produced a long-term backlash, culminating most recently in the form of a tax revolt (from the 1960s), a move to the right in the Republican Party (beginning with Ronald Reagan and running through Newt Gingrich directly to Mr. Ryan) and a deep-seated conviction that tax rates and government spending must be reduced ("starve the beast").

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The urge to punish before a verdict comes in reflects the same deep-seated conviction that the U.S. court system is simply not to be trusted to do its job.

Huffington Post

Taken together, the steps and limits show Obama's deep-seated conviction that only the Iraqis can resolve a fight driven by Sunni feelings of anger, persecution and abandonment at the hands of the Shiite government in Baghdad.

The Washington Post

Neither professes any passionate or deep-seated conviction, belonging to rival tribes largely by accident of birth.

The Guardian - Opinion

The French introduced the concept of the judge's conviction intime (inner, deep-seated conviction) in contrast to rules of formal evidence that prescribed exactly when the evidence amounted to proof.

Britannica

Hank Klibanoff, director of the journalism program at Emory University and coauthor of a Pulitzer Prize-winning book on press coverage of the civil rights movement, said Patterson wrote with deep-seated conviction about the troubled era.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a deep-seated conviction" when you want to emphasize that a belief or feeling is firmly established and difficult to change. It adds weight and significance to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a deep-seated conviction" in informal settings where simpler terms like "strong belief" or "firm opinion" would suffice. The phrase carries a weight that may seem out of place in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deep-seated conviction" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a particular kind of belief, one that is firmly rooted and resistant to change. According to Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deep-seated conviction" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a firmly held belief or opinion. As indicated by Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and encyclopedic entries. When using this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the gravity of the belief you are describing and avoid overuse in casual conversations. Consider alternatives like "ingrained belief" or "firm opinion" to tailor your language to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a profound conviction

Highlights the depth and significance of the conviction.

a deeply held view

Highlights the personal and profound nature of the conviction.

a firm belief

Focuses on the steadfastness of the belief.

an abiding conviction

Focuses on the enduring quality of the conviction.

an ingrained belief

Emphasizes the long-held nature of the belief.

a visceral belief

Indicates a belief that is felt instinctively and deeply.

a settled opinion

Indicates a conviction that is unlikely to change.

an unshakable faith

Emphasizes the unwavering nature of the conviction, particularly in a spiritual or ideological context.

a rooted opinion

Similar to 'deep-seated' but with more emphasis to its origin.

a strong feeling

Shifts focus to the emotional aspect of the conviction.

FAQs

What does "a deep-seated conviction" mean?

It refers to a belief or opinion that is firmly held, deeply ingrained, and not easily changed. It implies that the conviction is fundamental to a person's values or worldview.

How can I use "a deep-seated conviction" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the basis for someone's actions or beliefs. For example, "Her advocacy for animal rights stems from "a deep-seated conviction" that all creatures deserve respect."

What are some alternatives to "a deep-seated conviction"?

Alternatives include "an ingrained belief", "a profound conviction", or "a firm belief". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "deep-seated belief" or "deep-seated conviction"?

Both are valid, but "deep-seated conviction" emphasizes a stronger, more reasoned opinion than "deep-seated belief", which can be more general. Consider the context and the degree of certainty you want to convey.