deep structure

noun

, Linguistics.

1. (in transformational-generative grammar) the underlying semantic or syntactic representation of a sentence, from which the surface structure may be derived.

deep structure

noun

1. generative grammar a representation of a sentence at a level where logical or grammatical relations are made explicit, before transformational rules have been applied Compare surface structure

Word History and Origins

Origin of deep structure¹

An Americanism dating back to 1960–65

Example Sentences

“Reagan’s entire approach was somehow or other — almost the deep structure of the universe itself — that the underlying reality is good,” said Robinson, the former Reagan speechwriter who is now a policy fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institute.

From Seattle Times

Some already exist: large-scale geological maps based on decades of fieldwork, and surveys of the deep structure of rock formations based on the reflections of seismic waves from artificial or natural earthquakes.

From Science Magazine

He understood the deep structure of the genre, the various story beats that pushed a couple from meet cute to final clinch.

From New York Times

Safran describes the show’s deep structure as a comedy of manners.

From New York Times

In making “Kevin,” Armstrong and Craig DiGregorio, the showrunner, wanted to bare this deep structure without belittling or parodying the form of the multicam itself.

From New York Times