Language is full of versatile words that play different roles depending on how they’re used in a sentence. One such word that often sparks curiosity is “very.”
While it may seem like a small and simple word, “very” carries powerful meaning and is used extensively in both spoken and written English.
So, what part of speech is “very”? Let’s break it down to understand how this common word functions, with a focus on its definition and usage as an adverb, which is its most frequent role.
Definition and Meaning of “Very”
Before diving into the grammatical details, it’s important to understand what “very” actually means. According to most dictionaries, “very” is used to emphasize the degree or extent of something. It serves as an intensifier — a word that strengthens the meaning of another word.
Here are a few dictionary-style definitions:
- Oxford English Dictionary: “Used for emphasis, especially to emphasize how great or extreme something is.”
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary: “To a high degree: extremely.”
In practical usage, we use “very” to add intensity, precision, or clarity to a statement. It tells us how much or to what extent something is true.
Examples:
- She is very tired.
- That book was very interesting.
- It’s very cold outside.
In each of these cases, “very” modifies an adjective or adverb to amplify its meaning. Instead of simply saying “tired,” “interesting,” or “cold,” the word “very” tells us how much of those qualities exist.
“Very” as an Adverb
The most common role “very” plays in English is as an adverb. Adverbs are words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, and they often describe how, when, where, to what extent, or how often something happens. In the case of “very,” it falls into the category of adverbs that show degree or intensity.
1. Modifying Adjectives
This is the most frequent use of “very.” When “very” is placed before an adjective, it makes the adjective stronger.
Examples:
- That movie was very exciting.
- He is a very smart student.
- The house looks very old.
In all of these examples, “very” is intensifying the adjective that follows it. “Exciting” becomes more exciting, “smart” becomes smarter, and “old” becomes older — thanks to “very.”
2. Modifying Other Adverbs
“Very” can also modify other adverbs, especially those that describe how something is done.
Examples:
- She sings very beautifully.
- He ran very quickly.
- They arrived very late.
Again, “very” is used here to intensify the adverb that follows it. Without “very,” the description is less intense or less specific.
3. Usage in Comparisons and Superlatives
Sometimes “very” is used with superlative or comparative structures, although not always correctly. It typically modifies absolute adjectives, not comparative forms like “more” or “less.”
Correct:
- It was the very best day of my life.
- This is the very first time I’ve tried sushi.
Incorrect:
- It was very better than I expected.
(Instead, we say “much better,” not “very better.”)
This points to an important grammatical nuance: “Very” does not usually modify comparatives like “better,” “worse,” or “faster.” For those, words like “much” or “far” are more appropriate.
4. Common Expressions and Phrases
“Very” often appears in fixed expressions that have become common in English speech and writing. These phrases rely on “very” to deliver emphasis or emotional tone.
Examples:
- The very idea shocks me!
- At the very least, you could call.
- That’s the very reason I didn’t go.
In these phrases, “very” often means exact or precise, giving weight and certainty to the statement.
Why is “Very” Important in English?
Although small, “very” plays a big role in communication. It’s one of the most commonly used adverbs in English, particularly in everyday speech. People use it to make their emotions or opinions clearer, to persuade, or to emphasize a point.
For example:
- Saying “The cake is good” is a neutral statement.
- Saying “The cake is very good” adds enthusiasm or stronger approval.
This simple word helps convey the strength of feelings or intensity of experiences, which is critical in both casual and formal communication.
Overusing “Very”
While “very” is helpful, it can also be overused, particularly in writing. Using “very” too frequently can make writing feel repetitive, vague, or lazy. Instead of relying on “very,” consider using more specific or vivid vocabulary.
Examples:
- Instead of “very tired,” say “exhausted.”
- Instead of “very big,” say “enormous.”
- Instead of “very cold,” say “freezing.”
Writers are often encouraged to avoid overusing “very” and instead choose stronger adjectives that stand on their own. This leads to more expressive and engaging writing.
Grammatical Considerations
Here are a few quick grammar tips related to “very” as an adverb:
- Use “very” before adjectives and adverbs:
“She is very happy.”
“He speaks very clearly.” - Don’t use “very” before verbs directly:
“He very runs fast” is incorrect. Instead say: “He runs very fast.” - Use “very” with absolute modifiers carefully:
“The very top of the mountain” is correct.
But don’t say “very unique” — something is either unique or it’s not.
Understanding these rules ensures that you use “very” correctly and naturally in a sentence.
Examples of “Very” in Sentences
Understanding how “very” works in real-world contexts is essential to mastering its usage. While definitions are helpful, examples bring clarity to grammar and show how words function in action.
Here are several examples across different categories that demonstrate how “very” is used effectively in everyday English.
1. Modifying Adjectives
This is the most frequent use of “very.” It intensifies or strengthens the meaning of an adjective.
- The weather is very cold today.
- That was a very interesting movie.
- She is a very talented musician.
- I’m very tired after work.
- This is a very expensive dress.
In each case, “very” enhances the adjective that follows. Without it, the sentence still works but loses some of the emotional or descriptive power.
2. Modifying Adverbs
“Very” can also intensify adverbs, particularly those that describe how something is done.
- He speaks very clearly.
- She drove very fast to catch the train.
- They arrived very late to the event.
- The baby cried very loudly.
- You explained it very well.
Here, “very” is telling us more about the degree or intensity of the action.
3. With Past Participles
Though not always grammatically recommended, in casual or idiomatic usage, “very” sometimes appears before past participles that function adjectivally.
- I was very pleased with the results.
- She felt very appreciated by her team.
- He looked very annoyed.
Note: Some grammar purists recommend avoiding “very” with certain past participles and using stronger verbs or adjectives instead (e.g., “thrilled” instead of “very pleased”).
4. In Common Phrases
“Very” often appears in fixed or idiomatic phrases that carry a particular tone or meaning.
- That’s the very reason I didn’t go.
- From the very beginning, I knew something was wrong.
- He arrived at the very end of the show.
- The very idea of that is shocking!
In these cases, “very” emphasizes the specificity or exactness of a moment or idea.
Common Confusion: “Very” vs. “Vary”
One of the most frequent spelling and usage confusions in English involves the words “very” and “vary.” Though they sound similar, they have completely different meanings, pronunciations, and grammatical roles.
Let’s break down the differences clearly.
1. Definitions and Meanings
- Very: Used as an adverb (or sometimes an adjective) to emphasize intensity or exactness.
Example: “She is very happy.” - Vary: A verb that means “to change” or “to differ.”
Example: “Results may vary depending on the test.”
2. Pronunciation
- Very is pronounced /ˈvɛr.i/ — with a short “e” sound.
- Vary is pronounced /ˈveə.ri/ or /ˈvær.i/ — often with a diphthong or longer “a” sound depending on the accent.
The difference is subtle but important. Mispronunciation may lead to confusion, especially in speech.
3. Parts of Speech
- Very is not a verb. It’s mainly an adverb, occasionally an adjective.
- Vary is always a verb, and it’s never used as an intensifier.
4. Example Sentences: Very vs. Vary
| Word | Example Sentence | Explanation |
| Very | He is very tall. | “Very” intensifies the adjective “tall.” |
| Vary | The prices vary from store to store. | “Vary” means to differ or change. |
| Very | She did very well on the test. | “Very” intensifies the adverb “well.” |
| Vary | Your experience may vary based on location. | “Vary” shows that results differ. |
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- “I very my routine every day.”
Correct: “I vary my routine every day.” - “He is vary nice.”
Correct: “He is very nice.”
To avoid this confusion, remember:
- Very = Emphasis or intensity
- Vary = Change or difference
Quick Summary: What Kind of Word is “Very”?
By now, we’ve explored multiple angles of how “very” works. Let’s recap everything you need to know in a quick and simple summary:
1. Primary Function: Adverb
In most uses, “very” is an adverb. It is used to intensify adjectives and other adverbs.
- Adjective intensification:
“The soup is very hot.” - Adverb intensification:
“He plays the piano very well.”
Adverbs like “very” tell us to what degree something is true. It answers the question “How much?”
2. Occasional Function: Adjective
In rare cases, “very” acts as an adjective, especially in formal or literary English. In these cases, it often means “exact” or “precise.”
- “He stood on the very spot where she disappeared.”
- “That’s the very thing I needed.”
This usage is less common but perfectly grammatical. It usually modifies a noun instead of an adjective or adverb.
3. Meaning in a Nutshell
- As an adverb, it means “to a high degree” or “extremely.”
- As an adjective, it means “exact” or “precise.”
4. Related Words & Synonyms
Here are a few words often used in place of or alongside “very”:
- Extremely
- Really
- Quite
- Too
- So
Example:
- “She’s very good at math.” → “She’s extremely good at math.”
Keep in mind that while synonyms are helpful, they are not always interchangeable. Context matters.
5. Final Tips for Using “Very” Effectively
- Use “very” to make language more descriptive and engaging.
- Don’t overuse it — sometimes a more specific word is better.
- Avoid mixing it up with “vary.”
- Understand when it works as an adverb vs. an adjective.
Conclusion
Though small in size, “very” is a word of great impact. It plays a crucial role in sentence structure and meaning, helping us express intensity, exactness, and emphasis in both spoken and written English. By seeing it in action, comparing it to similar-sounding words like “vary,” and understanding its function in grammar, you’ll be better equipped to use “very” effectively and confidently.
Whether you’re writing an essay, crafting a story, or just trying to sound more fluent in English, knowing how to use “very” properly adds polish and precision to your communication.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our next article: “Very” as an Adjective — Rare but Real.
Belekar Sir is the founder and lead instructor at Belekar Sir’s Academy, a trusted name in English language education. With over a decade of teaching experience, he has helped thousands of students—from beginners to advanced learners—develop fluency, confidence, and real-world communication skills. Known for his practical teaching style and deep understanding of learner needs, Belekar Sir is passionate about making English accessible and empowering for everyone. When he’s not teaching, he’s creating resources and guides to support learners on their journey to mastering spoken English.
