Very

Definition

'Very' is an adverb that intensifies the meaning of the adjective or adverb it modifies. It serves to enhance the degree or quality of a word, making the expression stronger or more emphatic. The use of 'very' is common in everyday language, as it allows speakers to convey their feelings or opinions with greater intensity and clarity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Very' can be used with both adjectives and adverbs, enhancing their meaning by indicating a high degree.
2. 'Very' is often used in informal settings and can sometimes be viewed as overused or unnecessary in formal writing.
3. In some cases, using 'very' may weaken the expression if a stronger adjective or adverb could be employed instead.
4. 'Very' can help avoid ambiguity in sentences by clarifying the intensity of the quality being described.
5. Alternatives to 'very' include words like 'extremely,' 'highly,' or 'incredibly,' which can also serve as intensifiers but may provide a more vivid description.

Review Questions

• How does the use of 'very' function as an intensifier in sentences, and what impact does it have on the adjectives it modifies?
  • 'Very' functions as an intensifier by amplifying the meaning of the adjectives it modifies. For instance, saying 'very tall' suggests a greater height than simply stating 'tall.' This use helps convey stronger emotions and clearer images to the listener or reader. The impact is significant because it enhances communication by providing more precise descriptions, allowing for better understanding.
• Discuss the potential drawbacks of using 'very' in formal writing and provide examples of how it can be replaced with stronger alternatives.
  • 'Very' can be viewed as weak or vague in formal writing because it may not convey the intended intensity effectively. For example, instead of saying 'very important,' one might say 'crucial' or 'vital,' which carries a stronger connotation. In this way, replacing 'very' with more descriptive words not only strengthens the expression but also enhances the overall quality of writing.
• Evaluate how varying degrees of intensity in language can affect persuasive writing and provide examples where 'very' might either help or hinder that goal.
  • In persuasive writing, using varying degrees of intensity is crucial for making arguments compelling. While 'very' can emphasize a point—for example, stating 'very effective strategies' might draw attention—it can also weaken impact if overused. An argument could be more persuasive by using specific intensifiers like 'exceptionally effective strategies,' which creates a stronger impression. Ultimately, careful selection of intensity aids in achieving a more powerful persuasive effect.

Related terms

Adverb: 'Adverb' refers to a part of speech that modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb, often indicating manner, degree, frequency, or time.

Intensifier: 'Intensifier' is a type of adverb that increases the strength or intensity of an adjective or another adverb, similar to how 'very' functions.

Modifier: 'Modifier' is a word or phrase that changes or adds to the meaning of another word, often providing more detail about an adjective, noun, or adverb.