English Reference
adverb

profoundly

adv.
US /pɹoʊˈfaʊndɫi/ UK /pɹəfˈaʊndli/ pro·found·ly

  1. 01 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The speaker's personal account of the tragedy was profoundly moving, leaving the entire audience in a state of reflective silence.

  2. 02 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The discovery of the new manuscript has profoundly altered our understanding of the poet's early development and political leanings.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency LiteraryFormal

    in a way that shows deep thought or great knowledge.

    in a way that demonstrates deep insight or intellectual depth.

    Simple

    She spoke profoundly about the meaning of life and happiness.

    In context

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

    wiselyinsightfully
    shallowly

Usage profoundly affect · profoundly influence

The things that once felt urgent often fall away, while relationships, memories, unfinished conversations and the question of what we leave behind become profoundly important.

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

For modern health, they highlight how profoundly our diets and lifestyles alter our teeth in ways that set us apart from other primates.

ScienceDaily· 8 Jun 2026

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

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English profoundly
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated