slightly deeper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly deeper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small increase in depth, whether literal or metaphorical, in various contexts such as physical measurements, emotions, or discussions. Example: "The water in this part of the lake is slightly deeper than in the shallower areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jones, though, will have delved slightly deeper into the stats.

The Guardian - Sport

However, I think there's something slightly deeper going on.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's just a way to dig in slightly deeper.

The New York Times

"Staff speaking," he told the caller, in a slightly deeper voice.

The New York Times

England wisely drop slightly deeper instead of wasting energy chasing the man on the ball.

The Telegraph

However, it is just possible that Johnson's cancellation may have had a slightly deeper significance.

The Guardian - Opinion

These vessels could go only slightly deeper than scuba divers – up to about 40m.

The Guardian

This series takes away one vision of country life and gives us something slightly deeper.

The New York Times - Arts

He played slightly deeper than may have been expected, supporting Veron.

The Guardian - Sport

The skins added a speckled brown color to the cake crumb and a slightly deeper flavor.

The New York Times

Played slightly deeper than Defoe, then alongside Peter Crouch for 10 minutes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slightly deeper" in technical writing, quantify the difference if possible (e.g., "slightly deeper, by 2 cm").

Common error

Avoid using "slightly deeper" when the difference is substantial; choose a more appropriate descriptor like "significantly deeper" or "considerably deeper".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly deeper" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a small increase in depth. It is used to provide a relative measure, suggesting a subtle difference rather than a significant one. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly deeper" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a small increase in depth across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility, spanning from scientific reports to everyday conversations. While primarily functioning as an adjectival phrase for descriptive precision, it's essential to avoid overstating the difference and quantify the measure for technical accuracy. Alternatives such as "a bit deeper" or "somewhat deeper" can offer subtle variations in formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only slightly deeper

Adds emphasis to how the increase is small but keeps the same structure of the original phrase.

just a little deeper

Replaces "slightly" with "just a little" for a less formal tone.

a bit deeper

More informal alternative, suitable for casual conversation.

somewhat deeper

Slightly more formal than "a bit deeper", indicating a modest increase.

marginally deeper

Emphasizes the small degree of difference in depth.

fractionally deeper

Highlights the minimal increment in depth.

imperceptibly deeper

Implies the increase in depth is hard to notice.

a shade deeper

Uses a metaphorical term to describe a subtle increase in depth.

ever so slightly deeper

Emphasizes the almost unnoticeable increase in depth.

barely deeper

Indicates the depth is only just more profound.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly deeper" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly deeper" to describe a small increase in depth. For example, "The foundation needs to be "slightly deeper" to support the structure properly".

What is the difference between "slightly deeper" and "much deeper"?

"Slightly deeper" indicates a small difference in depth, while "much deeper" implies a considerable difference. The choice depends on the magnitude of the difference you want to convey.

Which is more formal, "slightly deeper" or "a bit deeper"?

"Slightly deeper" is generally considered more formal than "a bit deeper", which is more suitable for casual conversation.

What can I say instead of "slightly deeper"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat deeper", "marginally deeper", or "just a little deeper" depending on the context.