at deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at deep" is not correct and usable in written English.
It seems to be an incomplete expression and lacks clarity without additional context. Example: "The water is at deep, making it unsafe for swimming."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He makes no pretence at deep analysis or intellectual theorising.

The Economist

These bonds have been sell ing at deep discounts.

The New York Times

On 98 he hits toward the boundary at deep mid.

The Guardian - Sport

The outlet offers unclaimed custom-made orders at deep discounts.

The New York Times

My favorite way is by looking at deep history.

The Guardian

Earlier in the day, Denly flick-pulled Kallis straight to the man at deep square; now Kallis has flick-pulled Broad straight to Denly at deep square.

The Guardian - Sport

The Cold War was at deep freeze during the 1960s.

BBC

There's a depth to Abba that hints at deep sadness".

BBC

John Hastings holes out at deep mid-wicket.

BBC

At deep depth where temperature is above 600°C, only stable slip occurs.

Earth, Planets and Space

The inversion model retrieves the ring morphology, confirming Chicxulub Crater has complex multiple rings at deep.

Earth, Planets and Space

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to depth, consider more precise and grammatically correct alternatives such as "at great depth" or "in deep water" depending on the context. If using "at deep" in naval terminology, ensure the context is clear.

Common error

Avoid using "at deep" in general writing as it's often perceived as grammatically incorrect. Opt for more common phrases like "in depth" or "at a deep level" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at deep" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase modifying verbs or adjectives, though its usage is often debated due to grammatical concerns. Ludwig AI notes its incorrectness in standard English, yet its presence in specific contexts influences its perceived function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "at deep" appears frequently, particularly in certain technical contexts like naval architecture and, occasionally, sports commentary, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. Ludwig AI underscores this point. More precise and widely accepted alternatives, such as "in deep water" or "at a great depth", are recommended for general usage. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and BBC contain examples, the prevalence of Wiki sources indicates a broader, but not necessarily grammatically endorsed, usage. Therefore, discretion and awareness of the context are crucial when encountering or considering the use of "at deep".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a deep level

Emphasizes the depth of engagement or understanding. It introduces specificity regarding the degree of immersion.

at a great depth

Indicates a significant physical or abstract depth. Introduces a sense of scale that might be lacking.

in deep water

Suggests a challenging or precarious situation. Introduces a sense of difficulty not present in the original phrase.

at the deepest point

Highlights the most extreme level or extent. Adds a sense of finality or culmination.

at full load

Refers to the maximum capacity, particularly in naval contexts. It's highly specific and context-dependent.

deep inside

Implies internalization or hidden location. Changes the focus to internal states or concealed positions.

profoundly

Indicates a deeply felt or significant impact. Shifts the focus to the effect or intensity.

in depth

Implies a thorough or detailed examination. Adds a sense of completeness to the analysis.

to a great extent

Highlights the magnitude or degree to which something occurs. Changes the focus to the degree of influence.

at a low price

Indicates affordability or reduced cost. Changes the focus to economic value.

FAQs

What is the proper way to use "at deep" in a sentence?

While generally considered grammatically incorrect, "at deep" appears in specific contexts like naval terminology (e.g., "displaced at deep load") or cricket commentary. In most other cases, use alternatives like "at a deep level" or "in deep water".

Which is correct, "at deep" or "in deep"?

Generally, "in deep" is more common and grammatically sound, particularly when describing situations (e.g., "in deep trouble"). "At deep" is mostly confined to specific technical contexts. Consider using "at a deep level" when indicating the level of something.

What can I say instead of "at deep" to describe complexity?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "in depth", "at a profound level", or "thoroughly" to convey complexity. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express.

Is "at deep" acceptable in formal writing?

No, "at deep" is generally not acceptable in formal writing. It's better to use grammatically correct and widely accepted alternatives such as "at a great depth" or rephrase the sentence for clarity and precision.