indeed
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌɪndˈiːd/
US
- /ˌɪnˈdid/
Description
- really
- in fact
- certainly
- to stress a point
- to agree strongly
"Indeed" is used mainly to add emphasis or to show strong agreement. It can mean something like "really," "certainly," or "in fact," depending on the sentence. If a friend says, "It was a difficult journey," you might reply, "Indeed it was," to show clear agreement.
It often sounds a little more formal than just saying "yes" or "really." It can also introduce extra information that strengthens what came before, as in: "The food was delicious; indeed, it was the best meal I've ever had."
"Indeed" is a flexible word that adds force, agreement, or confirmation to what is being said. At its core, it often means something close to "certainly," "really," or "in fact." Its main job is to make a statement stronger or to show that something is true beyond doubt.
Imagine you are talking about a long hike. If someone asks, "Was the trail steep?" you might reply, "Indeed, it was quite steep." In that sentence, "indeed" gives extra weight to the answer. It does more than simply say "yes"; it confirms the point with emphasis. It can also build on an earlier idea. For example: "The town looked quiet; indeed, almost no one was on the streets." Here it adds supporting detail that makes the first statement feel more real and complete.
"Indeed" can also appear after an adjective or at the end of a sentence for extra strength, as in "a fine day indeed" or "That was unexpected indeed." In these places, it works like an intensifier, giving the sentence a firmer tone. This use is common in writing and in careful speech.
It is a little more formal than many everyday alternatives, so you will often see it in books, essays, speeches, and careful conversation. In casual speech, people may choose "really" or "for sure" instead. Even so, "indeed" remains useful because it can agree, confirm, and strengthen all at once. When you use it well, it gives your sentence a calm but clear sense of certainty.
Examples
- 1
Difficult decision
It was indeed a difficult decision.
- 2
Strong emphasis
She was very tired indeed.
Pattern
very + adjective/adverb + indeed
very, with extra emphasis
- 3
Conversation confirmation
"Did you send the email?" "I did indeed."
Usage
used in conversation to confirm something strongly
- 4
Adding facts
The job is hard, and indeed not everyone can do it.
Phrase
and indeed
and in fact
- 5
Unexpected result
Some people thought the plan would fail, but it indeed saved the company.
- 6
Conditional truth
If he is indeed leaving next month, we need to find a replacement now.
Phrase
if indeed
if it is really true that
- 7
Real difference
The two towns look similar, but they are indeed quite different once you spend time there.
- 8
Formal confirmation
"Is this the right address?" "Indeed it is."
Usage
more formal than "yes"
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- indeedadverb