“Deep-seeded” or “deep-seated”: which is correct?
deep-seated
The short answer
The correct phrase is “deep-seated.”
Why people get it wrong
Deep-seeded sounds similar to the correct phrase and may lead people to think of seeds planted deeply, creating a plausible but incorrect mental image.
What kind of mistake it is
It is an eggcorn error.
Examples with deep-seated
- She has a deep-seated fear of heights.
- The issue is deep-seated and won’t be resolved easily.
- He harbors a deep-seated resentment towards the decision.
Quick check
She has a fear of heights.
The correct phrase is “deep-seated.”
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