English Reference

Word

deepening

Phoneticsdeep·en·ing

US/ˈdipənɪŋ/

UK/dˈiːpənɪŋ/

Definition

v. becoming stronger, more serious, or more intense. You use this when a feeling or a problem grows more powerful over time.

v. the present participle of 'deepen'; refers to the process of becoming more intense, profound, or extensive. Often describes abstract concepts like crises, relationships, or understanding.

Examples

“The deepening crisis is causing concern for many families.”

“The deepening friendship between the two neighbors led them to start a business together.”

“Economists warned that the deepening recession would likely result in long-term structural changes to the labor market and a significant reduction in consumer spending.”

Examples

simple

“The deepening crisis is causing concern for many families.”

contextual

“The deepening friendship between the two neighbors led them to start a business together.”

complex

“Economists warned that the deepening recession would likely result in long-term structural changes to the labor market and a significant reduction in consumer spending.”

Usage

Often functions as a participial adjective before a noun; describes a state of ongoing intensification.

Real-World Examples

“In October 2021, the military dissolved the civilian-military power-sharing arrangement, deepening tensions over the country’s future.”
Al Jazeera · 17 Aug 2026
“The two leaders will meet in Canberra on Wednesday to discuss deepening economic cooperation.”
The Guardian · 16 Aug 2026

Word family

deepenVerbdeepeningVerb

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

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