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.
Many people have a deep-seated fear of public speaking, which can seriously affect their performance at work or university.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: It's a deep-seeded fear.
Say: It's a deep-seated fear.
It's 'deep-seated' (firmly set in place), not 'deep-seeded' — a common spelling error.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Deep-seated fear' is the natural collocation; 'profoundly ingrained apprehension' is overwritten.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
deep-seated + fear
- a deep-seated fear
- deep-seated anxiety
- deep-seated belief
- deeply held