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Indeed vs. Deed: What's the Difference?

Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 11, 2023
Indeed is an adverb confirming or amplifying a statement, while Deed refers to an action or a formal document.

Key Differences

Indeed is primarily an adverb used in the English language to emphasize a statement or response. It can convey agreement, confirmation, or surprise. For instance, when someone says, "It's a beautiful day," a response might be, "Indeed, it is." On the other hand, Deed is a noun that refers to an action, particularly a notable or heroic one. It can also represent something someone accomplishes. If someone does a good action for a community, that action can be described as a good deed.
In another context, Indeed can be used to introduce a further and stronger point in a conversation or argument. Suppose someone claims, "The weather is unpredictable in the mountains." A response might be, "Indeed, last year there was a snowstorm in the middle of summer!" Conversely, Deed can also refer to a formal document that is signed and delivered, especially one regarding the ownership of property or legal rights. Buying a house, for instance, often involves the transfer of a deed.
Indeed often appears in casual as well as formal conversations. Its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various contexts, proving its significance in expressing emphasis or agreement. In a business meeting, one might say, "Our sales have increased." And a colleague might respond, "Indeed, they have doubled since last quarter." In contrast, Deed, when referring to an action, is commonly used in contexts highlighting moral or ethical considerations. For example, tales often describe knights performing brave deeds.
In the realm of online job searching, Indeed is also the name of a popular job search engine. Job seekers might say, "I found the job listing on Indeed." Meanwhile, Deed remains anchored in its meanings, either as a noble action or as a legal document. People might say, "His deeds will be remembered," or "I have the deed to this property."

Comparison Chart

Part of Speech

Adverb
Noun
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Main Meaning

Emphasis/Agreement
Action or Document

Example Use

"Indeed, it's true."
"He did a good deed."

Secondary Meaning

Introducing a point
Formal document about ownership

Context

Both casual and formal
Specific to action or legal

Indeed and Deed Definitions

Indeed

To introduce a contrasting point.
I can cook. I can't bake, indeed, but I can cook.
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Deed

An act of charity.
She did a good deed by helping the homeless.

Indeed

An expression of surprise or emphasis.
Indeed? I had no idea!

Deed

A formal document, especially regarding ownership.
I have the deed to this land.

Indeed

To emphasize a word or statement.
It was, indeed, a great performance.

Deed

Performance or achievements.
His deeds will be remembered.

Indeed

Introducing a further point in an argument.
He's good. Indeed, he's the best.

Deed

Something that is carried out; an act or action.

Indeed

Used to confirm or agree with a statement.
It's cold today. Indeed it is.

Deed

A usually praiseworthy act; a feat or exploit.

Indeed

Without a doubt; certainly
Very cold indeed.
Was indeed grateful.

Deed

Action or performance in general
Deeds, not words, matter most.

Indeed

In fact; in reality
Felt sure I'd win, and indeed I did.

Deed

A signed, sealed, and delivered instrument.

Indeed

Used to express surprise, skepticism, or irony.

Deed

An instrument conveying an interest in real property.

Indeed

(modal) Truly; in fact; actually.
Indeed, he made several misplays.
Yes, I do indeed look very similar to you.

Deed

To transfer by means of a deed
Deeded the property to the children.

Indeed

In fact.
As a soccer player, he is terrible indeed.

Deed

An action or act; something that is done.
One small deed can have one stour effect or more.

Indeed

Indicates emphatic agreement.
"I am a great runner." "Indeed!"

Deed

A brave or noteworthy action; a feat or exploit.

Indeed

In reality; in truth; in fact; verily; truly; - used in a variety of senses. Esp.: (a) Denoting emphasis; as, indeed it is so. (b) Denoting concession or admission; as, indeed, you are right. (c) Denoting surprise; as, indeed, is it you? Its meaning is not intrinsic or fixed, but depends largely on the form of expression which it accompanies.
The carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
I were a beast indeed to do you wrong.
There is, indeed, no great pleasure in visiting these magazines of war.

Deed

Action or fact, as opposed to rhetoric or deliberation.
I have fulfilled my promise in word and in deed.

Indeed

In truth (often tends to intensify);
They said the car would break down and indeed it did
It is very cold indeed
Was indeed grateful
Indeed, the rain may still come
He did so do it!

Deed

(legal) A legal instrument that is executed under seal or before a witness; sometimes required for certain legal activities, such as the transfer of certain kinds of property.

Indeed

(used as an interjection) an expression of surprise or skepticism or irony etc.;
Wants to marry the butler? Indeed!

Deed

The legal title to real estate; ownership.
I inherited the deed to the house.

Deed

To transfer real property by deed.
He deeded over the mineral rights to some fellas from Denver.

Deed

Dead.

Deed

That which is done or effected by a responsible agent; an act; an action; a thing done; - a word of extensive application, including, whatever is done, good or bad, great or small.
And Joseph said to them, What deed is this which ye have done?
We receive the due reward of our deeds.
Would serve his kind in deed and word.

Deed

Illustrious act; achievement; exploit.
Whose deeds some nobler poem shall adorn.

Deed

Power of action; agency; efficiency.
To be, both will and deed, created free.

Deed

Fact; reality; - whence we have indeed.

Deed

A sealed instrument in writing, on paper or parchment, duly executed and delivered, containing some transfer, bargain, or contract.

Deed

Performance; - followed by of.

Deed

To convey or transfer by deed; as, he deeded all his estate to his eldest son.

Deed

A notable achievement;
He performed a great deed
The book was her finest effort

Deed

A legal document signed and sealed and delivered to effect a transfer of property and to show the legal right to possess it;
He signed the deed
He kept the title to his car in the glove compartment

Deed

An action or act.
He is known for his brave deeds.

Deed

Something done intentionally.
The deed has been done.

FAQs

Is Indeed only used for emphasis?

No, it can also express agreement or surprise.

Can "deed" mean a charitable act?

Yes, like in "a good deed."

What's a synonym for Indeed?

Truly.

Can Indeed be a job search engine's name?

Yes, Indeed.com is a popular job search site.

What's a synonym for Deed when referring to an action?

Act or exploit.

Is Deed always singular?

No, it can be plural as "deeds."

What's the opposite of a good deed?

A misdeed.

What does Deed primarily refer to?

An action or a formal document.

Is a deed legally binding?

Yes, especially when it refers to property ownership.

What part of speech is Indeed?

Indeed is an adverb.

Can Indeed start a sentence?

Yes, "Indeed, it was a remarkable event."

Do all deeds refer to positive actions?

No, a deed can be good or bad.

Can you replace Indeed with "yes" in a sentence?

Often, as in "Yes, it is" and "Indeed, it is."

Are deeds public records?

Typically, property deeds are public records.

Can Indeed and Deed be used in the same sentence?

Yes, "Indeed, his deeds were commendable."

Can Indeed be used sarcastically?

Yes, e.g., "You're late again." "Indeed!"

Is every action called a deed?

Not necessarily, "deed" often refers to significant or noteworthy actions.

Does "indeed" have origins in Old English?

Yes, it originated from the phrase "in dede" meaning "in fact."

How is a deed different from a contract?

A deed is a signed document proving ownership, while a contract is an agreement between parties.

Can "indeed" express doubt?

Not typically, it's usually used for emphasis or agreement.
About Author
Written by
Janet White
Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon Moss
Harlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.

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