deep-seated conviction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep-seated conviction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, firmly held belief or opinion that is deeply ingrained in a person's mind or character. Example: "Her deep-seated conviction about the importance of education motivated her to become a teacher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 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

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

The Guardian - Opinion

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Over the years, he earned begrudging acceptance from world leaders who criticized his outmoded Soviet-style leadership but came to appreciate his courtly tenacity and deep-seated convictions.

The New York Times

A virtue in handling coalition relations, his lack of many deep-seated convictions has been a vice when it comes to dealing with his own tribe.

The Guardian - Opinion

As they waited for him to board an El Al plane called Jerusalem, Vatican officials declared the trip a success because the pope acted and spoke from genuine, deep-seated convictions.

The New York Times

However, the assurances about his commitment to separation of church and state were all very — reassuring.... Except that Romney has a history of changing his mind on what seemed to be deep-seated convictions, without any warning whatsoever.

The New York Times

Though no less a friend to business than Mr. Bush, he had deep-seated convictions about a range of issues and thought them through in hundreds of self-written radio scripts that were published this year ("Reagan, in His Own Hand") on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deep-seated conviction" to describe beliefs that are fundamental to someone's character or worldview, influencing their actions and decisions. This phrase adds weight and seriousness to the described belief.

Common error

While "deep-seated conviction" is a powerful phrase, it's best reserved for serious or formal contexts. Overusing it in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep-seated conviction" functions primarily as a noun phrase modifier, where the adjective "deep-seated" intensifies and specifies the type of "conviction". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is both correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deep-seated conviction" is a grammatically sound and meaningful phrase used to describe a strong, firmly held belief, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is more common in formal contexts like news, academia, and encyclopedias, suggesting a level of gravity and thoughtful consideration. While the phrase is valid, reserve it to more formal, serious contexts to avoid sounding overly dramatic. When looking for alternatives, consider "profound belief", "firmly held belief", and "strong conviction" to capture similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong conviction

Highlights the intensity and power of the conviction.

deep-rooted belief

Similar to deep-seated, but emphasizes the origin and historical development of the belief.

ingrained conviction

Stresses the deep implantation and long-lasting nature of the conviction.

profound belief

Focuses on the depth and significance of the belief.

firmly held belief

Emphasizes the unwavering nature and tenacity of the belief.

unshakable belief

Conveys the idea that the belief is impervious to doubt or challenge.

abiding conviction

Suggests a conviction that persists over time and remains constant.

intrinsic conviction

Focuses on the conviction arising from within, based on personal values or understanding.

profound faith

Emphasizes the spiritual or religious dimension of the conviction.

unwavering faith

Highlights the steadfastness and certainty of the faith.

FAQs

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

You can use "deep-seated conviction" to describe a strong, firmly held belief. For example, "Her deep-seated conviction in the power of education drove her to become a teacher."

What's a good alternative to "deep-seated conviction"?

Alternatives include "profound belief", "firmly held belief", or "strong conviction" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "deep-seated belief" the same as "deep-seated conviction"?

While similar, "belief" generally refers to an acceptance that something is true, while "conviction" suggests a stronger, more firmly held and often action-oriented belief. The phrase "deep-seated belief" is valid but can lack the power of "deep-seated conviction".

What makes a conviction "deep-seated"?

A "deep-seated" conviction is one that is deeply ingrained, long-lasting, and fundamental to a person's values or worldview. It is not a superficial or easily changed opinion.