deep structure

American  

noun

Linguistics.

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

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deep structure British  

noun

1. generative grammar a representation of a sentence at a level where logical or grammatical relations are made explicit, before transformational rules have been applied Compare surface structure

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Etymology

Origin of deep structure

An Americanism dating back to 1960–65

Compare meaning

How does deep-structure compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• deep structure vs. surface structure

Example Sentences

How can diversity and inclusion become an enterprise that extends past token gestures into the deep structure of the institution?

From New York Times

“Now we start to have that deep structure down to the core,” said geophysicist Philippe Lognonné in another pre-recorded talk.

From Scientific American

White bass are good with small crankbait above deep structure.

From Washington Times

Black drum are good on crab or shrimp and are good around deep structure.

From Washington Times

Water stained; 65 degrees; Largemouth bass are good not straying from deep structure with crankbaits and spinners.

From Washington Times