Our English teachers told us to avoid the word “very” because it’s weak and vague. They were right, and many times, we use “very” as a modifier for a word that could easily be replaced with a stronger, more accurate word. This infographic tells you what to use instead.
Using big words doesn’t always make you sound smarter. However, words exist for a reason, and they can be powerful. Using the right words is less about sounding smart and more about being descriptive. Chances are, if you use the word “very” to describe something, there’s a better word out there. For example, instead of saying you’re “very happy,” you might say you’re ecstatic. In the below infographic, ProofreadingServices.com lists 127 other examples.
Of course, context matters, and these words may not quite express what you’re trying to say (or write), depending on the context. Still, they’re useful to have on hand if you have a habit of saying “very,” or you often struggle to find the right word. Check it out at the link below.
128 Words to Use Instead of “Very” [ProofreadingServices.com]
Comments
6 responses to “128 Words You Can Use Instead Of ‘Very’”
that was very interesting
My pet hate is people who abuse “freezing” when describing weather/temperature. Very cold is better, as freezing has other meanings and connotations, like when it is sub zero temperatures (when water actually freezes). People in Australia are too liberal with using “freezing” – how do you describe temperatures that are really really cold, like minus 20 Celsius, if you start using “freezing” when it is only 15 Celsius?
In a similar way in the infographic, they say to replace “very accurate” with “exact”. You can be very accurate without being exact.
Very Tall – Towering
Very Short – Brief
There is more to this than just ceasing to use very. Sometimes there is stigmas or other nuances attached to the singular words. Try calling someone an “Archaic Gentleman”, I don’t think you will get the response you wanted 😉
Replace “very” with “like, totally…” and you’ll instantly sound like, totally smart.
Replace “very” with “f’n” and you’ll instantly sound “f’n” bogan.
But, it is double good to to talk small words!