What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dearly
Example
I will always love you dearly. [dearly: adverb]
Example
The ring was sold dearly at the auction. [dearly: adverb]
Example
She held her dearly departed husband's hand one last time. [dearly: adjective]
deeply
Example
I am deeply sorry for your loss. [deeply: adverb]
Example
She is deeply committed to her work. [deeply: adverb]
Example
He is deeply immersed in his research. [deeply: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deeply is more commonly used than dearly in everyday language. Deeply is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dearly is less common and refers to a specific type of emotional attachment or value.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dearly and deeply?
Both dearly and deeply can be used in formal and informal contexts, but deeply may be considered more formal due to its versatility and objectivity.