Deeper

Deeper is the comparative form of the adjective deep. It describes greater distance from the top to the bottom in a physical sense, greater intensity or degree in non-physical senses, or a more thorough or profound quality. It is used to compare two or more items: for example, “The lake is deeper than the pond,” “We need a deeper understanding of the issue,” or “This analysis goes deeper.”

In figurative language, deeper often accompanies abstract nouns such as meaning, emotion, or connection: “deeper meaning,” “deeper feelings,” “deeper connections.” The superlative form is deepest. As an adjective, deeper can modify nouns directly (a deeper layer, a deeper dive). When used as an adverb, more deeply is the standard form in formal writing (think more deeply about it).

Etymology and form: deeper is derived from the Old English deop, related to Dutch diep and German tief, with the ordinary English comparative suffix -er. The word is part of a productive pattern in English that forms comparatives by adding -er to short, single-syllable adjectives.

Usage notes: deeper commonly appears in physical contexts (geography, science) as well as in analysis and interpretation (literary, philosophical). It is also found in everyday speech to convey a sense of increased thoroughness or seriousness. See also deep, depth, profundity.