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dig deep

/dɪɡ diːp/
phrasal verb★Intermediate💡 investigate thoroughly◆phrasal verb
informal

to investigate or explore something thoroughly, often by examining details or hidden aspects

We need to dig deep into the data to find the root cause of the problem.

We must examine the data thoroughly to identify the underlying issue.

She dug deep into her past to understand why she felt so anxious.

She explored her past in great detail to uncover the reasons for her anxiety.

💡

Often implies going beyond surface-level information to uncover hidden truths or motivations.

Collocations

dig deep into somethingexamine something thoroughlydig deeperinvestigate further

Synonyms

investigate thoroughlyprobe deeplyexplore fullydelve intoexamine closely

Antonyms

scratch the surfaceglance overskimoverlook

Related Phrases

get to the bottom ofphrase
discover the truth about something
leave no stone unturnedidiom
search thoroughly and carefully

💡Pro Tip

Use in questions

This phrase works well in questions to encourage deeper exploration, e.g., 'Can you dig deeper into this issue?'

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid overusing

While useful, 'dig deep' can sound clichéd if repeated too often in writing or speech.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'dig' (to break up, turn over, or remove earth) with 'deep' (extending far down from the surface). The metaphorical use emerged in the early 20th century, drawing on the idea of excavating soil to find hidden objects, applied figuratively to uncovering hidden information.

📝Usage Notes

Common in journalistic, investigative, and analytical contexts. Often used to emphasize the effort required to uncover meaningful insights. Can sound informal in professional settings if overused.

Word Breakdown

dig
to examine or search thoroughly
verb
+
deep
thoroughly or extensively
adverb
English Dictionary

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