Words / C1

pr-uh-FOWND/prəˈfaʊnd/

Profound means very great in degree, or showing deep insight. Native writers use a profound effect, profound change, a profound remark. Deep is the everyday word; profound is more formal and often intellectual or emotional. Superficial is a useful opposite. Profoundly is the adverb.

Meaning

Very great or showing deep understanding.

Examples

• “The book had a profound effect on him.”
• “The closure had a profound impact on local shops.”
• “It is a short book, but the argument is profound.”

Good to know

profound = very great or intellectually deep. Everyday: deep. Opposite: superficial.

Near in meaning

deep

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