deem
deem
Deem (verb) means to regard or judge something as being a certain way, based on one's opinion or assessment. Example: “The committee deemed the proposal unworkable.”
verb
1
To regard or judge something as being a certain way, based on one's opinion or assessment.
"The committee deemed the proposal unworkable."
"She was deemed unfit to drive after the accident."
How to use deem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo formally consider or judge something to be a certain way.
When to use it
Fairly formal — common in legal, official, or written contexts rather than casual speech.
Common pairings
deemed appropriate
deemed necessary
deem fit
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Word forms
- Plural
- deems
- Third person singular
- deems
- Past tense
- deemed
- Archaic forms
- deemest, deemedst, deemeth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The committee _____ the proposal unworkable.
Etymology
From Old English dēman ("to judge, decide"), related to the word "doom."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for deem
See all rhymes for deem →Frequently asked questions
What does “deem” mean?
The word “deem” means to regard or judge something as being a certain way, based on one's opinion or assessment. In plain terms, to formally consider or judge something to be a certain way.
How do you pronounce “deem”?
“Deem” is pronounced deem (/dim/ in IPA).
How do you use “deem” in a sentence?
Here is “deem” used in a sentence: “The committee deemed the proposal unworkable.”
What is another word for “deem”?
Words with a similar meaning to “deem” include account, appraise, count, esteem, see and censure.
What part of speech is “deem”?
“Deem” is a verb.
Where does the word “deem” come from?
The word “deem” comes from Old English. From Old English dēman ("to judge, decide"), related to the word "doom.".
Is “deem” a common word?
“Deem” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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