Word
deemed
US/ˈdimd/
UK/dˈiːmd/
Definitions
01to consider or judge
v. to judge or consider something to be a certain way.
v. to consider, judge, or regard something in a specified way; often used in the passive voice to indicate an official or collective opinion.
“The old bridge was deemed unsafe for heavy trucks after the inspection.”
“The committee reviewed the proposal but ultimately deemed it incompatible with the long-term strategic goals of the organisation.”
Formal
Usage
Often used in the passive voice ('it was deemed...') followed by an adjective or noun phrase.
Pitfall
The plan was deemed as unnecessary.
The plan was deemed unnecessary.
Do not use 'as' after 'deemed'. The verb is followed directly by the adjective or noun complement.
Teaching tip
This is a high-level alternative to 'thought' or 'considered'. Remind students that adding 'as' is a very common error.
Synonyms
02university status in India
adj. a special status given to some high-quality universities in India.
adj. referring to 'Deemed University' status in the Indian higher education system, granting institutions autonomy in courses and fees.
“He graduated from a deemed university that is famous for its engineering program.”
“The institution was granted deemed university status by the Department of Higher Education, allowing it to design its own curriculum independently.”
Technical · Formal
Usage
Almost exclusively used in the phrase 'deemed university'.
Teaching tip
This is a highly specific administrative term used in South Asian English; most learners will only encounter it in academic or legal contexts regarding India.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“US officials have long condemned settler violence towards Palestinians in the occupied West Bank in general terms but they have not deemed Israeli settlers’ actions “terror” or referred to them as “terrorists”.” “The goal was disallowed, however, after a VAR check deemed Lamfir still had control of the ball.” “Meg, a young orphan deemed “unadoptable”, has her fortunes changed when she meets Birdie, the new bookkeeper at her orphanage.”