gained depth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gained depth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, idea, or character that has become more complex or profound over time. Example: "As the story progressed, the protagonist's motivations gained depth, revealing layers of conflict and emotion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

A row of smoky baby leeks with smooth, nutty romescu sauce gained depth from the grilling.

The New York Times

Potato soup with gnocchi, from a changing menu headed, for the moment, "Autumn 2000," gained depth and vividness from fines herbes; minestrone, the soup of another evening, was pallid by comparison.

The New York Times

Last season her intellectual strengths and emotional vulnerabilities gained depth, and the belly shirts and short shorts of the early days often gave way to sweatpants and T-shirts.

The New York Times - Arts

The interesting article by Russell Shorto could perhaps have gained depth if he had mentioned that some years ago, Pope John Paul II wrote a solid and insightful encyclical titled "Laborem exercens" on the Christian meaning of work and professional life.

The New York Times

The thickness of the cortex — the outer layer of the brain that controls high-level functions such as memory — started off thinner than that of the other groups, but rapidly gained depth until it was thicker than normal during the early teens.

Nature

Just as good music thrives on talent cultivated with creativity and leavened with intellect, the new respect accorded to traditional Southern foods gained depth and breadth as much from Neal's insatiable curiosity and sound research skills as from his gifted palate.

Duke University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But we also gain depth and complexity.

The Washington Post

The characters don't gain depth as the story proceeds; they slip further away from us.

The Guardian - Books

In any case, Mr. Pendleton's performance will certainly gain depth as the run progresses.

The New York Times

"Sting in Tuscany: All This Time," tomorrow night on A&E, also gains depth from its circumstances.

The New York Times

We started as a movement, which needed to gain depth and breadth before it could form a political party.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gained depth", ensure the subject of the phrase is something that can realistically develop complexity or profundity, such as a character, plot, or understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "gained depth" to describe physical objects that increase in physical size or thickness. Instead, use verbs like "thickened", "expanded", or "grew".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gained depth" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "gained" is the past tense of the verb "gain", and "depth" is a noun. As Ludwig AI says, it describes the action of something becoming more profound or complex. It is commonly used to indicate an increase in understanding, complexity, or intensity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gained depth" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express an increase in complexity, profundity, or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appropriately describes situations, ideas, or characters that have evolved. While it appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for various writing styles. Remember to use it when referring to something that has truly become more complex or profound and avoid using it for simple physical increases. Consider alternatives like "became more profound" or "acquired complexity" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

became more profound

Focuses on the increase in intellectual or emotional intensity, rather than spatial or physical measurement.

acquired complexity

Highlights the increase in intricate details or elements.

developed richness

Emphasizes the enhancement of quality and fullness.

increased understanding

Shifts the focus to gaining knowledge or insight.

expanded scope

Indicates a broadening of range or extent.

matured insight

Implies a growth in wisdom and comprehension.

advanced knowledge

Specifically refers to improving one's understanding of a subject.

intensified feeling

Highlights an increase in emotional strength or passion.

elaborated details

Focuses on adding more specific information.

cultivated perspective

Highlights the development of a thoughtful and informed viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I use "gained depth" in a sentence?

You can use "gained depth" to describe how a character's personality, a story's plot, or one's understanding of a topic has become more complex or profound over time. For example, "As the story progressed, the protagonist's motivations "gained depth", revealing layers of conflict and emotion."

What can I say instead of "gained depth"?

You can use alternatives like "became more profound", "acquired complexity", or "developed richness" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "gained depth" or "increased depth"?

"Gained depth" and "increased depth" are both correct and largely interchangeable. The choice between them depends on personal preference and stylistic context.

What does it mean when something has "gained depth"?

When something has "gained depth", it means it has become more intricate, insightful, or comprehensive. It suggests a progression from simplicity to complexity or from superficiality to profundity.