hit deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hit deep" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as an idiomatic expression to describe when a feeling or emotion has a strong or profound impact on a person. For example, "The loss of her beloved pet hit deep and she wept for days."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"That ball hit deep, way back.

The New York Times - Sports

Israel also showed it can hit deep inside Syria, and with seeming impunity.

The Economist

In baseball terms you might describe it as a walk-off hit deep into extra innings.

The New York Times - Arts

Federer, subdued behind base line, hit deep and it was 6-6.

The Guardian - Sport

As the wave hit deep water, he leaned into a huge, elegant carving cutback.

The New Yorker

For every one shot Roddick hit deep, but down the middle of the court, Tipsarević sent two into the corners.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Moments of choreographic ingenuity hit deeper.

The New York Times - Arts

"I think she was just more aggressive than I was, hit deeper and harder," Sharapova said.

The New York Times - Sports

And beneath the glittering technical virtuosity was a poetic quality that made his short compositions seem to hit deeper truths.

The Guardian

He hit deeper on his own return and started to find the angles when moving in behind his serve.

The Guardian - Sport

It felt like surfing, smooth and curvy, as we drifted through the snow; we were fast, and then we were slow as we hit deeper stuff.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hit deep" to describe an emotional impact, ensure the context clearly establishes what is causing the profound feeling. For example, "The movie's ending hit deep because it mirrored my own family's struggles."

Common error

Avoid using "hit deep" for superficial or fleeting emotions. This phrase implies a profound and lasting impact, so ensure the context warrants such a strong description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hit deep" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "hit" acts as a transitive verb and "deep" as an adverb modifying the verb. It describes the manner in which something affects a person or situation, implying a significant emotional or physical impact. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hit deep" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a profound or significant impact, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media and Sports contexts, it conveys intensity and depth. While versatile, writers should ensure the context justifies the strength of the phrase, avoiding its use for superficial emotions. Alternatives such as "resonate strongly" or "have a profound effect" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resonate strongly

Focuses on the emotional impact rather than physical penetration.

have a profound effect

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the influence.

strike a chord

Highlights the emotional connection or resonance.

penetrate deeply

Emphasizes the act of something going far inside, either physically or emotionally.

affect significantly

Focuses on the degree of influence or change.

impact profoundly

Highlights the influential effect.

leave a lasting impression

Emphasizes the long-term effect or memory created.

touch deeply

Focuses on the emotional aspect of the impact.

cut to the quick

Implies a sharp, painful emotional impact.

sink in

Focuses on the process of understanding or realization.

FAQs

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

You can use "hit deep" to describe something that profoundly affects someone emotionally. For example, "The news of her friend's passing really "hit deep"".

What are some alternatives to "hit deep"?

Alternatives include "resonate strongly", "have a profound effect", or "strike a chord", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "deeply hit" instead of "hit deep"?

While grammatically understandable, "deeply hit" is not a common or idiomatic expression. "Hit deep" is the standard phrasing.

What's the difference between "hit deep" and "affect deeply"?

"Hit deep" often implies a more sudden or impactful emotional realization, while "affect deeply" suggests a gradual or prolonged influence.