Tiefergehen

Tiefergehen is a German verb meaning to go deeper, to delve more thoroughly into a topic, or to descend to a deeper level, whether literally or figuratively. It covers both physical depth (a cave, a body of water) and intellectual or experiential depth (an analysis, a discussion, a spiritual experience). The term is frequently used in philosophy, theology, science, journalism, and literature to signal a move beyond surface-level explanations.

Etymologie and usage context: The word combines tief (deep) and gehen (to go). In everyday language it is often written as two words as "tiefer gehen" but can appear as a single verb form in more literary or formal contexts, especially in its infinitive or participial forms. The standard conjugation follows the pattern of gehen, with the past participle tied to tiefergegangen. Examples include: "Wir müssen tiefer gehen, um die Ursachen zu verstehen," and "Die Diskussion ging tiefer, als erwartet." Adjectival use yields "tiefergehende Analysen" or "tiefergreifende Fragen," indicating a more thorough or profound examination.

Related terms and nuance: Synonyms include vertiefen and eingehender betrachten, while Vertiefung denotes the act or result of deepening understanding. The expression frequently carries a serious or analytical tone and is common in academic writing, investigative reporting, and reflective prose.

See also: Tiefgründig, Vertiefung, Eingehung, Vertiefung der Diskussion.