Grammar fix
a deep-seated fear
entrenched fear; a fear that is long-lasting and difficult to change
A strong fear that has existed for a long time, often rooted in past experiences or upbringing, and is not easily overcome.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- She has a deep-seated fear of flying that makes it hard for her to travel abroad.daily life
- Many people have a deep-seated fear of public speaking, which can seriously affect their performance at work or university.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: a deep-seated fear (of something)
WrongIt's a deep-seeded fear.
RightIt's a deep-seated fear.
It's 'deep-seated' (firmly set in place), not 'deep-seeded' — a common spelling error.
Patterna deep-seated fear (of something)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Deep-seated fear' is the natural collocation; 'profoundly ingrained apprehension' is overwritten.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
deep-seated + feara deep-seated feardeep-seated anxietydeep-seated beliefdeeply held
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'a strong fear', which simply means a powerful fear, 'a deep-seated fear' emphasizes that the fear is deeply rooted and long-lasting, not just intense in the moment.