profound
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /prəˈfaʊnd/
KK: /prəˈfaʊnd/
adjective
Definition
Having a deep meaning or significance; very intense or serious.
Example
The speaker shared a profound message that resonated with everyone in the audience.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more profound
Superlative: most profound
Conversation
I just read a book that had some really profound ideas about life.
That sounds interesting! What was it about?
It explored how small changes can lead to profound impacts on our happiness.
I love books like that; they really make you think differently.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deep
intense
significant
Antonyms
superficial
shallow
trivial
noun
Definition
A deep or intense quality, often related to thoughts or feelings.
Example
The profound of her thoughts left everyone speechless.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about the profound mysteries of the ocean?
Yeah, it's amazing how deep and unexplored it is.
Exactly! The depth of the sea holds so many secrets.
Root Explanation
Profound → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning before or in front of) and "fundus" (meaning bottom or foundation). The word "profound" originally described something that goes deep or reaches the bottom, indicating great depth in understanding or knowledge.
Memory Tip
Think of something that goes 'deep' ('fundus') and is 'in front of' or 'before' ('pro-') — that's why profound means having great depth.
Visually Confused Words
unprofound
propound
preconfound
refound
pronoun