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REFERENCE

profoundly

adv.
US //pɹoʊˈfaʊndɫi// UK //pɹəfˈaʊndli// pro·found·ly
  1. 1 extremely or deeply (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    very much; used to show that a feeling or quality is extremely strong.

    to a very great or intense degree; used to modify adjectives or verbs related to feelings and states of being.

    Example

    The news of his friend's recovery moved him profoundly.

    Example

    The speaker's personal account of the tragedy was profoundly moving, leaving the entire audience in a state of reflective silence.
  2. 2 completely or fundamentally (adv.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    in a way that changes the most important parts of something.

    in a manner that affects the fundamental nature or essence of something; used to describe systemic or structural shifts.

    Example

    The internet has profoundly changed the way we communicate with each other.

    Example

    The discovery of the new manuscript has profoundly altered our understanding of the poet's early development and political leanings.
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  1. 3 with great wisdom (adv.)
    C2 Proficiency Literary Formal

    in a way that shows deep thought or great knowledge.

    in a way that demonstrates deep insight or intellectual depth.

    Example

    She spoke profoundly about the meaning of life and happiness.

    Example

    He wrote profoundly on the intersection of ethics and technology, challenging readers to consider the long-term consequences of their innovations.
    • shallowly
Origin

From Middle English profoundly, profoundely, equivalent to profound + -ly.

Word family

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