deep background

USAGE SUMMARY

"deep background" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when a source requests to provide information on a sensitive topic while still wanting their identity to remain confidential. Example sentence: The source requested to provide the information on a deep background basis as they did not want to be identified.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why do such a deep background check?

The New York Times

And the deep background of the novel?

The Guardian - Books

But in World Cup terms, that is now deep background.

The New York Times

"Viktor didn't have that deep, deep background in anatomy he does now," he said.

The New York Times - Science

Scooter Libby, for example, often spoke "off the record" when he really meant "deep background".

The Guardian - Opinion

On the terrace, giant, simplified dinosaur heads suggest a deep background of primordial terror (Johnson).

The New York Times - Arts

But put my media feeling on deep background -- it's something I'm supposed to be expiating.

The New York Times

You can also use information received on deep background as the basis for further reporting.

The Washington Post

It's not all smack talk; I have a deep background in business strategy.

Harvard Business Review

Deep background: This is a tricky category, to be avoided if possible.

The Washington Post

Information accepted on "deep background" can be included in the story, but not attributed.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To ensure accuracy when referring to someone's "deep background", verify the details and context of their experience. This avoids misrepresenting their qualifications or expertise.

Common error

Don't assume "deep background" is the same as "off-the-record". With deep background, you can use the information but not attribute it to the source. Off-the-record means you can't use the information at all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep background" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as an adjective to describe the nature of information or a person's expertise. As shown by Ludwig, the term indicates a comprehensive and thorough understanding or context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deep background" is a common noun phrase that signifies comprehensive and detailed information or expertise. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in news, academia, and business contexts. The phrase often describes the thoroughness of knowledge or the extent of contextual information. When using the term, it's crucial to differentiate it from similar concepts like "off-the-record" and to ensure clarity with sources regarding attribution. As Ludwig examples show, it is also used to describe a skill, expertise, or detailed context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough background

This alternative emphasizes the completeness and detail of the background information.

extensive knowledge

This focuses on the breadth and depth of understanding one possesses.

detailed context

This emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the surrounding circumstances or information.

comprehensive understanding

This highlights a complete and thorough grasp of a subject.

profound knowledge

This suggests a deep and insightful understanding.

in-depth analysis

This emphasizes a thorough and detailed examination of a topic.

complete picture

This refers to having all the necessary information to understand something fully.

full story

This implies having access to all the details and facts of a situation.

historical context

This specifically refers to the historical information needed to understand something.

underlying reasons

This emphasizes the fundamental causes or motivations behind something.

FAQs

How is "deep background" used in journalism?

In journalism, "deep background" refers to information provided to a reporter that can be used in a story, but the source cannot be identified by name or position. It's a way for sources to provide context without being directly quoted.

What does it mean when a source speaks on "deep background"?

When a source speaks on "deep background", it means they are providing information with the understanding that their identity will not be revealed in any way. The information can be used to inform the story, but not attributed to them directly.

What is the difference between "deep background" and "off the record"?

"Deep background" allows the reporter to use the information without attributing it to the source, while "off the record" means the information cannot be used at all. They serve different purposes in protecting a source's identity and controlling the flow of information.

What are some alternatives to the term "deep background"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "thorough background", "extensive knowledge", or "detailed context" to convey a similar meaning.