profound
The word "profound" is generally used in formal or serious contexts. It is rarely used in casual conversation unless describing something truly life-changing or deeply intellectual. When talking about emotions or effects, it means "very strong." For example, a "profound sadness" is much deeper than just being sad. In medical terms, such as "profound deafness," it describes a total or near-total loss of function rather than a partial one.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is leaning back in his office chair while Brian is in the server room.
David Smith
Just read a LinkedIn post on AI. Truly profound stuff.
Brian
Cut it out and just tell me if you've rebooted the laptop.
💡
David uses 'profound' to describe a superficial corporate post, attempting to sound intellectual. Brian shuts him down using the phrasal verb 'cut it out' (stop doing that), maintaining his grumpy IT persona and focusing on the technical fix.
Meanings
adjective
(of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense.
"The discovery had a profound effect on the way scientists viewed the universe."