# indeed

/ˌɪnˈdid/ (US) · /ˌɪndˈiːd/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. emphasizing a statement

adverb · CEFR B1

you use this to emphasize that what you are saying is true or very important.

For teachers: used to emphasize a statement or a particular quality, often following 'very' or a similar intensifier.

- The food was very good indeed, and we ate every bit of it.
- The results were very encouraging indeed, surpassing even the most optimistic projections the research team had initially proposed.

Usage: Often placed at the end of a clause for emphasis, especially after an adjective modified by 'very'.

### 2. adding more information

adverb · CEFR B2 · Formal

you use this to add a new point that confirms or makes your first point stronger.

For teachers: used to introduce a further point that confirms or intensifies the previous statement.

- It was a difficult year; indeed, it was the hardest year of my life.
- The policy was ineffective; indeed, it appeared to exacerbate the very social tensions it was designed to alleviate.

Usage: Typically used at the beginning of a second clause to strengthen the first.

### 3. showing agreement

interjection · CEFR B2 · Formal · British English

a way to say 'yes' or 'I agree' in a slightly formal way.

For teachers: used as an emphatic response to express agreement or to acknowledge a statement.

- 'It is a beautiful day.' 'Indeed it is.'
- 'The committee's decision seems somewhat premature, don't you think?' 'Indeed, I was about to suggest the same thing.'

### 4. showing surprise or doubt

interjection · CEFR C1 · Formal · Humorous

you say this with a rising voice to show you are surprised or that you don't quite believe someone.

For teachers: used with a rising intonation to express interest, surprise, or skepticism regarding a previous remark.

- 'He says he finished the whole project in one hour.' 'Indeed?'
- 'The CEO claims he had no knowledge of the accounting errors.' 'Indeed? That seems highly improbable given his reputation for detail.'

Teaching tip: This sense relies heavily on intonation; a rising tone signals doubt, while a falling tone signals simple acknowledgement.

## Examples

- The food was very good indeed.
- It is a very difficult situation indeed, and we must handle it with extreme care.
- While the initial results were promising, the subsequent data proved to be more significant indeed, suggesting a fundamental shift in the market's trajectory.

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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.