deep melancholy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep melancholy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a profound or intense feeling of sadness or sorrow. Example: "After the loss of her beloved pet, she was enveloped in a deep melancholy that lingered for weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

See 60 in a row and a deep melancholy begins to set in.

Independent

Finally — this is important, Gazzara thinks — the two men share a kind of deep, melancholy shyness.

The New Yorker

This is a satire that is built not on laughs but on a deep melancholy.

The New York Times

David Wood (@djwoodeye) cautioned: "You could do without the deep melancholy Richmond provides".

The Guardian - Sport

Finally this is important, Gazzara thinks the two men share a kind of deep, melancholy shyness.

The New Yorker

A vastly gifted but troubled man, he was wildly self-centered and prone to bouts of deep melancholy.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Maybe, as Ratliff beautifully argues, the brooding aggression of metal obscures a deeper melancholy.

The New Yorker

She made five or six passes through the song, overdubbing, creating unexpected harmonies that tugged the mood into deeper melancholy.

The New Yorker

They also let us hear the dissonant chords of memory, "where what is lost is not yet radiant -- not a joy but a source of deepest melancholy".

The New York Times - Books

Inevitably they demand Some stationary set-ups, and A shot that does not call for tracks Is agony for poor dear Max Who, separated from his dolly, Is wrapped in deepest melancholy.

The New Yorker

James Mason, the British actor who worked with Ophuls in Hollywood, penned a little rhyme about him:A shot that does not call for tracks Is agony for poor old Max, Who, separated from his dolly, Is wrapped in deepest melancholy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deep melancholy", consider the context to ensure the phrase is appropriate for the tone and audience. It is best suited for formal or literary writing, rather than casual conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "deep melancholy" in everyday conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "very sad" or "really down" are usually more appropriate and sound less pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep melancholy" functions as a noun phrase, where "deep" modifies the noun "melancholy", intensifying its meaning. It describes a state of profound and pervasive sadness. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Arts

18%

Books

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deep melancholy" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a state of profound sadness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media, arts, and books, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "profound sadness" or "intense sorrow" exist, "deep melancholy" specifically conveys a lasting, reflective sorrow that is best suited for formal contexts, avoiding overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep sadness

A simpler expression conveying a similar meaning, emphasizing the intensity of the sadness.

profound sadness

Emphasizes the intensity and depth of the sadness, focusing on the emotional experience.

intense sorrow

Highlights the severity and poignancy of the sorrow, suggesting a more acute emotional pain.

acute despondency

Indicates a state of hopelessness and dejection, focusing on the loss of spirit or courage.

abysmal gloom

Conveys a sense of darkness and despair, emphasizing the oppressive nature of the melancholy.

settled dejection

Highlights a prolonged state of sadness, suggesting a more enduring sense of gloom.

heartfelt grief

Emphasizes the sincerity and depth of the grief, suggesting a strong emotional connection to the loss.

profound despair

Focuses on the complete loss of hope, suggesting a sense of hopelessness and resignation.

lingering sorrow

Highlights the lasting nature of the sorrow, suggesting it continues to affect the individual.

intense wistfulness

Emphasizes longing and a touch of sadness when thinking about something or someone.

FAQs

How can I use "deep melancholy" in a sentence?

You can use "deep melancholy" to describe a state of profound sadness or pensiveness. For example: "A "deep melancholy" settled over her after the funeral."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "deep melancholy"?

Some alternatives to "deep melancholy" include "profound sadness", "intense sorrow", or "acute despondency". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "sadness" and "deep melancholy"?

"Sadness" is a general term for unhappiness, while "deep melancholy" suggests a more persistent, profound, and often reflective state of sorrow. It is a more intense and enduring feeling.

Is it appropriate to use "deep melancholy" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "deep melancholy" may sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Simpler expressions like "very sad" or "really down" are often more suitable.