Avoid Using ‘Very’ to Sound More Powerful in English
Using alternatives for the word “very” can help make your writing more precise, concise, and engaging. Here are some reasons why:
Precision: “Very” is a vague and general term that does not convey much meaning. Using a more specific word can help you express your ideas more precisely and accurately. For example, instead of saying “very happy,” you could say “ecstatic” or “delighted.”
Conciseness: Using “very” can make your writing sound wordy and repetitive. By using a more specific word, you can convey the same meaning in fewer words. This can help make your writing more concise and easier to read.
Engagement: Using a variety of descriptive words can help make your writing more engaging and interesting to read. By avoiding overuse of “very,” you can create a more dynamic and engaging style.
Overall, using alternatives for the word “very” can help improve the quality and impact of your writing.
Here are some examples of alternatives for expressions with the word “very”:
Instead of say:
very happy -> overjoyed – ecstatic – elated
very sad -> devastated – heartbroken – grief-stricken
very tired -> exhausted – drained – weary
very hungry -> starving – famished – ravenous
very cold -> freezing – chilly – frigid
very hot -> sweltering – scorching – boiling
very important -> critical – vital – crucial
very good -> excellent – outstanding – superb
very bad -> terrible – awful – dreadful
very pretty -> gorgeous – stunning – beautiful
So, don’t depend on intensifiers to give your weak words power. Choose strong, specific language to strengthen your writing. Good luck!