can do very

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can do very" is not correct in standard written English as it lacks clarity and context.
It may be used in informal speech or writing, but it is generally better to provide a more complete expression for clarity. Example: "I can do very well on this test if I study hard."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But when done well, mime can do very powerful stuff".

The New York Times

As a line, I think we can do very well.

The New York Times - Sports

In fact, a consultant alone can do very little.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Eleven competent footballers, well coached, can do very well".

The Guardian - Sport

The more experience you have, you can do very well".

The New York Times - Sports

There is the small local operation that somebody can do very well in, there's the global enterprise in high technology that somebody else can do very well in.

The New Yorker

We as architects can do very little about it, but as citizens we have a responsibility".

Independent

If you have the more passionate supporters in a caucus, you can do very well.

The New York Times

"I think you can do very calm, very pleasant ads," he said.

The New York Times

I know there are certain subjects that I can do very well.

The New York Times

And then you realize you can do very little, and it's terribly disappointing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace "can do very" with stronger verbs and adverbs to enhance clarity and grammatical correctness. For example, use "can perform exceptionally well" or "is highly effective at".

Common error

Avoid relying on "very" as an intensifier, as it often weakens the sentence. Choose more precise and descriptive words to convey the intended meaning. For instance, instead of "can do very well", consider "can excel" or "can thrive".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can do very" functions as a modifier expressing ability combined with an intensifier. However, as highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically weak. It aims to describe the extent to which someone or something is capable, but lacks precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

23%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "can do very" appears frequently in various sources, Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically incorrect and lacks precision. This suggests that although the phrase is common, it is advisable to substitute it with stronger, more descriptive language to enhance clarity and impact. Consider alternatives such as "can perform exceptionally well", "is highly effective at", or "is extremely proficient in". These alternatives provide a more concrete and powerful expression of ability and potential. By avoiding vague intensifiers and opting for more precise language, writers can improve the overall quality and effectiveness of their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can perform exceptionally well

Replaces "do very" with a stronger verb and adverb that highlights superior performance.

is extremely proficient in

Replaces "do very" with a focus on adeptness and mastery of a specific skill.

is highly effective at

Specifies a skill or area where someone performs well, replacing the vague "do very".

has the potential to excel

Focuses on the inherent capacity to achieve high standards, rather than just 'doing very'.

is quite skilled at

Highlights expertise in a certain area, which clarifies the meaning beyond just "doing very".

is capable of achieving great things

Replaces the vague "do very" with a more concrete and impactful expression of potential.

can operate very efficiently

Focuses on efficient performance, offering a quantifiable and clear improvement over "doing very".

can succeed greatly

Emphasizes the positive outcome of actions, providing a more directional alternative.

is able to accomplish much

Substitutes "do very" with a more precise term emphasizing the ability to complete tasks effectively.

can handle it exceptionally

Indicates competence and effectiveness, a step up from simply "doing very".

FAQs

How can I avoid using "can do very" in my writing?

Opt for stronger verbs and adverbs that convey your intended meaning more precisely. Alternatives include phrases like "perform exceptionally well", "excel greatly", or "thrive greatly".

Is "can do very" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, "can do very" is often considered grammatically weak and vague. Replacing it with more descriptive and precise language will improve the clarity and impact of your writing. Consider "can perform exceptionally well" or "is highly effective at" instead.

What are some alternatives to "can do very well"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is able to accomplish much", "can succeed greatly", or "has the potential to excel". These phrases offer more specific and impactful ways to express ability or potential.

How does using stronger language improve my writing when I'm tempted to say "can do very"?

Stronger language adds clarity and impact to your writing. Replacing vague phrases like "can do very" with more precise alternatives such as "is extremely proficient in" or "can operate very efficiently" makes your message more direct and effective.