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Synonyms

deep down

Idioms  

  1. At bottom, basically. For example, Deep down she was a rebel, or Although he would never admit it, deep down he was very fond of her. [c. 1900]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Deep down, I always hoped an agreement would be made," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

"Deep down I am sad it wasn't possible to shoot in Wales," he said.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

"Deep down I always suspected there was something more," said Tammy.

From BBC • Nov. 11, 2025

Deep down, every dysfunctional family comedy is about togetherness.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 17, 2024

Deep down Mom was probably hoping for something profound or sweet—maybe “I’m alive” or “Where’s Mommy?”

From "Ugly" by Robert Hoge

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.