digging deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "digging deep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of exploring thoroughly or investigating a subject in detail. Example: "In order to understand the complexities of the issue, we need to start digging deep into the data and research available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I'm used to digging deep.

The Guardian - Sport

"I was hanging on, digging deep.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're digging deep into our pockets to do it".

The New York Times

But understanding the world isn't just about digging deep.

The Guardian - Opinion

This entertaining movie has no interest in digging deep.

The Guardian - Film

In digging deep, Olivo has come up with something fresh.

The New Yorker

"You have to give him a lot of credit for digging deep.

Independent

Digging Deep — Brandon Pettigrew (DET), Brent Celek (PHI) and Scott Chandler (BUF).

The New York Times - Sports

Digging Deep — Andre Ellington (ARZ), Brandon Bolden (NE) and Rashad Jennings (OAK).

The New York Times - Sports

Digging Deep — Brian Hoyer (CLE), Ryan Tannehill (MIA) and Ryan Fitzpatrick (BUF).

The New York Times - Sports

Digging Deep Mike Tolbert (CAR), Daniel Thomas (MIA), Jonathan Stewart (CAR).

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "digging deep" to convey the idea of thorough investigation or making a significant effort to overcome a challenge. This phrase is effective in both professional and informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "digging deep" too frequently in a single piece of writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "exploring thoroughly" or "investigating rigorously" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "digging deep" typically functions as a verb phrase, often used metaphorically to describe a thorough investigation or a significant effort to overcome a challenge. Ludwig provides examples that highlight its usage in diverse contexts, such as investigative journalism and personal endurance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "digging deep" is a versatile verb phrase used to convey thorough investigation or significant effort. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and frequently used in contexts such as news and media, science, and formal business settings. While it can be employed across various registers, it's essential to avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like "exploring thoroughly" or "delving deep". The phrase effectively communicates commitment and intensity, making it a valuable tool in both formal and informal communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delving deep

Focuses on exploring a topic in detail, similar to "digging deep" but with a more academic or investigative connotation.

plumbing the depths

Suggests exploring the most profound or hidden aspects of something.

searching exhaustively

Highlights the thoroughness of the search, leaving no stone unturned.

exploring thoroughly

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the investigation, emphasizing completeness.

getting to the bottom of

Indicates a desire to uncover the true cause or nature of a situation.

investigating rigorously

Emphasizes the strict and methodical approach to the examination.

scrutinizing closely

Emphasizes careful and critical examination.

exerting oneself greatly

Shifts the focus to the effort expended, rather than the investigation itself.

working intensely

Focuses on the concentration and energy applied to a task.

trying hard

A more general term for putting in effort, lacking the depth implied by "digging deep".

FAQs

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

You can use "digging deep" to describe a thorough investigation, as in, "The reporter was "delving deep" into the scandal to uncover the truth". It can also refer to exerting significant effort, such as "She had to start "trying hard" to finish the project on time".

What are some alternatives to "digging deep"?

Alternatives include "delving deep", "exploring thoroughly", "investigating rigorously", or "plumbing the depths", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "digging deep" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "digging deep" when you want to emphasize the intensity of an investigation or the significant effort being made. It is suitable for news articles, academic papers, and business reports, as well as more informal contexts.

What's the difference between "digging deep" and "scratching the surface"?

"Digging deep" implies a thorough and comprehensive investigation, while "scratching the surface" suggests only a superficial examination. If you're "scratching the surface", you're not addressing core issues; when you are "digging deep" it means to find the real truth.