# deemed

/ˈdimd/ (US) · /dˈiːmd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deemed
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to consider or judge

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to judge or consider something to be a certain way.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice ('it was deemed...') followed by an adjective or noun phrase.

Teaching tip: This is a high-level alternative to 'thought' or 'considered'. Remind students that adding 'as' is a very common error.

### 2. university status in India

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

a special status given to some high-quality universities in India.

For teachers: 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.

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.

## Examples

- The old building was deemed unsafe for people to live in.
- After a thorough review, the committee deemed the proposal suitable for funding.
- The court's decision was based on whether the evidence could be deemed admissible under the current statutes governing digital privacy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.