dig deep into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dig deep into" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when speaking of researching or investigating a topic or issue more thoroughly. For example, "The scientist dug deep into the data to find patterns of disease outbreaks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Dig deep into yourself for a true answer.

The New Yorker

If you dig deep into something, it loses the fun.

The New York Times

On Saturdays, DJ Cosi will dig deep into his archive for the rarest of grooves.

The New York Times

An exercise: dig deep into your subconscious and perfect the art of crafting beautiful sentences.

The New Yorker

Anyone interested in the traditional earnings number has to dig deep into the press releases.

The New York Times

The program allows scientists to dig deep into very specific scientific questions.

The Washington Post

And it could allow people to explore other faiths -- or dig deep into their own religion.

The New York Times

People will still have to dig deep into their own pockets.

The New York Times

Earning the points required resilience and the capacity to dig deep into their energy reserves.

The Guardian - Sport

At an abandoned Soviet Army base here, scavengers dig deep into the earth.

The New York Times

PAUL LIVERT of Oceanside has had to dig deep into his pockets for prescription drugs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dig deep into" in your writing, consider the context. Is it an emotional, intellectual, or literal search? Tailor your language to match.

Common error

Avoid using "dig deep into" when describing a simple or casual exploration. The phrase implies a significant effort and depth of investigation, so it's best reserved for situations where a more profound understanding is sought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dig deep into" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used transitively to indicate a thorough and intensive investigation or exploration. It can also be used intransitively to describe introspection or self-reflection, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

18%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dig deep into" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies a thorough and intensive investigation or exploration. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and correct. It's commonly found in news and media, academic writing, and general discourse. While suitable for a variety of contexts, it's essential to consider the level of formality and choose appropriate synonyms like "delve into" or "investigate thoroughly" for more formal or scientific settings. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase in superficial contexts, as it implies a significant effort and depth of inquiry.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delve into

Focuses on exploring a topic in detail, often implying research.

probe into

Suggests a careful and systematic investigation, often of a sensitive issue.

explore thoroughly

Emphasizes the comprehensiveness of the investigation or exploration.

investigate fully

Highlights the completeness of the investigation.

scrutinize closely

Indicates a detailed and critical examination.

examine meticulously

Stresses the precision and attention to detail in the examination.

look into intently

Focuses on the focused attention given to the examination.

analyze comprehensively

Highlights the broad scope of the analysis.

research extensively

Emphasizes the depth and breadth of the research effort.

plumb the depths of

Implies exploring the most profound or hidden aspects of something.

FAQs

How can I use "dig deep into" in a sentence?

You can use "dig deep into" to describe a thorough investigation or exploration. For example, "The detective had to "dig deep into" the evidence to solve the case."

What does it mean to "dig deep into" something?

To "dig deep into" something means to investigate or explore it thoroughly and with great effort, often to uncover hidden information or gain a deeper understanding.

What can I say instead of "dig deep into"?

You can use alternatives like "delve into", "probe into", or "explore thoroughly" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "dig deeper into" instead of "dig deep into"?

While both phrases are understandable, "dig deep into" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "Dig deeper into" is also grammatically correct but may sound less natural in certain contexts.