WordValeprofound
very great or intense; showing deep insight
In more detail
1. (adjective) very deep or intense; showing deep knowledge or serious thought
2. (adjective) (of a change or effect) very great or important
Examples
- 1. She made a profound observation about human nature that made everyone think carefully.
- 2. The internet has had a profound impact on how people communicate.
How to use profound
Profound describes something intellectually or emotionally deep, or something with major consequences. It conveys seriousness and weight, distinguishing it from merely 'deep' or 'important'—profound suggests wisdom, gravity, or far-reaching significance. It works well in academic, literary, and formal contexts.
Common phrases
- profound impact
- profound change
- profound knowledge
- profound effect
- profound insights
- profound silence
Synonyms
deep · intense · meaningful · significant · substantial
Opposites
superficial · shallow · trivial
Word family
profoundly (adverb) · profundity (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'profound' to mean simply 'noticeable' or 'big' without the connotation of depth or intellectual weight; it is stronger and more specific than general intensifiers like 'very' or 'great'.
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