not deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not deep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks depth, whether literally (like water) or figuratively (like a conversation or thought). Example: "The pool is not deep enough for diving, so please be careful when swimming."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

But not deep enough.

The Economist

"These are not deep connections.

The New York Times

Umbo cavity not deep.

Nature

"The squad is not deep enough".

Independent

Its footprint is "broad, but not deep".

The Economist

Not deep enough, but a good start.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It is not deep-rooted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bulbs mostly not deep-seated.

University of California, Berkeley

Actually, maybe not deep-dish pizza, which I profoundly distrust.

The Guardian - Travel

These whales were not deep-diving squid suckers.

The Guardian

We are not deep-value managers.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not deep" when discussing physical objects to refer to the literal depth of the object, as in "The water in the shallow end of the pool is not deep enough for diving."

Common error

Avoid using "not deep" when you actually mean "not thorough". "Not deep" refers to a lack of profundity or physical depth, whereas "not thorough" indicates a lack of completeness or attention to detail. For example, instead of saying "The investigation was not deep", consider "The investigation was not thorough" if you mean it lacked detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not deep" functions as an adjectival phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate a lack of physical or metaphorical depth. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not deep" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a lack of depth, whether literal or figurative. According to Ludwig AI, its versatility allows for usage across a spectrum of contexts, from scientific reports to news articles and casual conversations. When selecting an alternative, consider the specific nuance you want to convey, choosing between options like ""shallow"", ""superficial"", or "not profound" based on the intended meaning. Remember to avoid confusing "not deep" with similar-sounding phrases like "not thorough", ensuring clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking depth

A more direct and neutral way to state the absence of depth.

shallow

Implies a lack of physical depth or a lack of intellectual or emotional complexity.

not profound

Specifically addresses a lack of intellectual or philosophical depth.

superficial

Focuses on a lack of thoroughness or engagement, often implying a negative judgment.

without substance

Highlights a lack of meaningful content or importance.

simplistic

Suggests an oversimplified view that fails to capture complexity.

skin-deep

Implies that something is only apparent on the surface and lacks real significance.

cursory

Suggests a quick and incomplete examination or treatment.

scant

Emphasizes a lack of abundance or completeness.

frivolous

Highlights a lack of seriousness or purpose.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "not deep"?

When something is described as "not deep", it means it lacks physical depth, intellectual complexity, or emotional profundity. The specific meaning depends on the context.

How can I use "not deep" in a sentence?

You can use "not deep" to describe water, thoughts, feelings, or analysis that lack depth. For instance, "The puddle was "shallow", not deep." or "The conversation was interesting, but "superficial", not deep."

Which is a better alternative to the phrase "not deep": "shallow" or "superficial"?

The best alternative depends on the context. "Shallow" is best for literal depth or a lack of intellectual complexity, while ""superficial"" is better for describing something that lacks thoroughness or emotional depth.

When should I use "not deep" instead of "not profound"?

Use "not deep" when referring to a general lack of depth, either physical or abstract. Use "not profound" when specifically addressing a lack of intellectual or philosophical depth.