definitions

deep structure

noun Linguistics.

(in transformational-generative grammar) the underlying semantic or syntactic representation of a sentence, from which the surface structure may be derived.

RELATED CONTENT

Deep StateRead more in this article about some frequently asked questions and fun facts related to our definitions.
READ MORE
4 Ways To Structure Your SentencesThe four types of sentence structures are simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex. The quantity and arrangement of clauses determines the makeup of each type of sentence structure. A clause is a grouping of words with both a subject and a verb that can (but doesn’t always) form a sentence. If the clause can form a complete thought on its own, it’s considered an independent clause. …
READ MORE

Nearby words

deep reflex, deep scattering layer, deep six, deep south, deep space, deep structure, deep temporal nerve, deep temporal vein, deep therapy, deep throat, deep transverse muscle of perineum
Compare surface structure.

Origin of deep structure

An Americanism dating back to 1960–65
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for deep structure

deep structure

noun

generative grammar a representation of a sentence at a level where logical or grammatical relations are made explicit, before transformational rules have been appliedCompare surface structure
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012