Dig: meaning, definitions and examples

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dig

[dɪɡ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

excavate

To break up, turn over, or remove earth, sand, etc., as with a shovel, spade, bulldozer, or claw; make an excavation.

Synonyms

burrow, excavate, scoop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dig	Typically used in casual conversation to describe making a hole in the ground with hands, tools, or machinery. It can also refer to searching for something hard to find. The children like to dig in the sandbox. They had to dig through old files to find the documents.
excavate	Used in formal or technical contexts, especially related to archaeology or construction, to describe carefully digging out and removing earth to find something buried or to prepare a site. Archaeologists excavate ancient ruins to uncover historical artifacts. They need to excavate the site before building the foundation.
burrow	Often used to describe animals creating a small, snug hole or tunnel in the ground to live in. It can also be used metaphorically to describe hiding or settling into a cozy place. Rabbits burrow into the ground to create their homes. She burrowed under the blankets to stay warm.
scoop	Typically used to describe lifting or taking out a small amount of something with a curved or hollow tool or hand. Can be used in both casual and professional contexts. She used a spoon to scoop ice cream into a bowl. The machine can scoop up hundreds of pounds of soil at a time.

Examples of usage

I had to dig a hole for the new tree.
The workers were digging a trench for the foundation.
She dug through the pile of dirt to find her lost ring.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

investigate

To discover by investigation; unearth.

Synonyms

examine, explore, probe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dig	Typically used when referring to physically breaking or removing soil or other materials to create a hole or space. It can also be used metaphorically when searching for information persistently. They had to dig a hole to plant the tree. He started to dig into her past to uncover the secret.
examine	Best used when referring to looking at something carefully and in detail, typically to learn more about it or to verify its correctness. The doctor will examine the patient thoroughly. You should examine the terms and conditions before signing the contract.
explore	Appropriate when discussing the action of traveling through an unfamiliar area to learn about it or investigating a topic in depth. We plan to explore the hidden valleys of the region. The report aims to explore the causes of climate change.
probe	Often used when referring to investigating something deeply or thoroughly, especially in a way that involves questioning or examining in a very detailed, precise, or intrusive manner. This word can carry a negative connotation when implying invasive or overly inquisitive behavior. The scientists will probe the ocean depths. Journalists began to probe into the politician's affairs.

Examples of usage

The detective needed to dig deeper into the case.
I decided to dig into the history of the old building.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

enthusiasm

An enthusiastic feeling; zest.

Synonyms

enthusiasm, passion, zest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dig	This word commonly refers to the action of breaking or moving earth, sand, snow, or other material using a tool, machine, or hands. It can also be used informally to mean 'to like' or 'to understand'. They're going to dig a hole for the new plant. I really dig that new song.
enthusiasm	This word is used to describe a feeling of eager interest or excitement toward a particular activity or subject. It is often associated with a positive and energetic attitude. She showed great enthusiasm for the project. His enthusiasm for learning is contagious.
zest	This word describes a keen enjoyment or interest in something. It can also refer to a lively quality that increases one's enjoyment of life, often implying a vigorous and spirited enthusiasm. He tackled the project with zest. Her zest for life is truly inspiring.
passion	This word typically refers to a strong and barely controllable emotion. It can denote intense enthusiasm or fondness for something, and it is often used in contexts related to love or strong interest. Her passion for art is evident in her work. They felt a deep passion for each other.

Examples of usage

She had a real dig in her step as she walked to the podium.
His dig for the subject was infectious.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Old English word 'diggan', which means 'to excavate'.
It has roots in the Germanic languages, where similar words meant 'to pull out or move'.
In the 16th century, it started being used informally in English to mean understanding something deeply.

Archaeology

Excavation is key in archaeology, where digging helps uncover artifacts from the past.
Different techniques, like stratigraphy, help archaeologists determine the age of artifacts found underground.
Famous sites like Pompeii were revealed through extensive digging, providing insights into ancient Roman life.

Culture

In hip hop culture, the phrase 'dig this' means to appreciate or understand something that is being shared.
Digging is often associated with treasure hunting, creating stories and myths around hidden riches.
The act of digging is not just physical; it's also metaphorical, as in 'digging into a topic' in research.

Science

When digging, soil composition can provide information about environmental conditions and ecosystems.
Geologists dig into the Earth to study rock layers and learn about the planet's history.
Certain plants have deep roots which can reach nutrients by 'digging' down into the soil.

Psychology

The concept of 'digging deep' can relate to exploring one's own feelings or memories in therapy.
Metaphorically, 'digging' into past experiences is often a way to understand current behaviors.
People who engage in reflective practices often 'dig' into their thoughts to gain more self-awareness.

Translations

Translations of the word "dig" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cavar

🇮🇳 खोदना

🇩🇪 graben

🇮🇩 menggali

🇺🇦 копати

🇵🇱 kopać

🇯🇵 掘る (ほる)

🇫🇷 creuser

🇪🇸 cavar

🇹🇷 kazmak

🇰🇷 파다

🇸🇦 يحفر

🇨🇿 kopat

🇸🇰 kopať

🇨🇳 挖掘 (wājué)

🇸🇮 kopati

🇮🇸 grafa

🇰🇿 қазу

🇬🇪 თხრა

🇦🇿 qazmaq

🇲🇽 cavar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,927 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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7924 analyst
7925 tractor
7926 conductors
7927 dig
7928 stare
7929 highlight
7930 tossed
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