it was very clean

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was very clean" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a place, object, or situation that is free from dirt or mess. Example: "After the cleaning crew finished their work, it was very clean, and everything looked spotless."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It was very clean.

The New Yorker

At first it was very clean.

The New Yorker

"It wasn't ostentatious, really, but it was very clean".

Independent

It was very clean, warm and welcoming, the menu was extensive and prepared to order.

The Guardian - Travel

It was very clean, in a good way, and the accessories were fantastic.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"There was a lot of glass and it was very clean," he says, laughing at his childhood perspective.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

So it's very clean".

Independent

It's very clean and very recognizable.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's very clean, very quiet.

The Guardian - Film

It's very clean and tidy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's very clean and well-lighted".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was very clean" to describe a space or object that exceeds typical cleanliness expectations. It's more impactful when contrasting with a previously dirty state.

Common error

Avoid pairing "it was very clean" with highly subjective descriptors. For example, saying "it was very clean and beautiful" might dilute the impact, as beauty is more subjective than cleanliness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was very clean" functions as a descriptive statement, attributing the quality of exceptional cleanliness to a subject. It's a subjective observation, where 'very' intensifies the adjective 'clean'. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was very clean" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a state of exceptional cleanliness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys approval or satisfaction with a tidy environment. While generally neutral in register, its impact is strongest when used to highlight a surprising or noteworthy level of cleanliness. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse with already subjective adjectives. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "it was spotless" or "it was immaculate" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was absolutely spotless

Emphasizes the complete absence of dirt or stains.

it was pristine

Conveys a state of original purity and cleanliness.

it was exceptionally tidy

Highlights the neat and orderly condition.

it was ultra clean

Uses a modern, informal term for high-level cleanliness.

it was remarkably hygienic

Focuses on the health and sanitary aspects.

it was gleaming

Describes a shiny and polished clean surface.

it was impeccably maintained

Stresses the effort and care taken to keep it clean.

it was thoroughly cleansed

Emphasizes the action of cleaning that was done.

it was purified

Highlights the removal of contaminants.

it was completely sterile

Focuses on the absence of living microorganisms.

FAQs

What does "it was very clean" mean?

The phrase "it was very clean" indicates that something was exceptionally free from dirt, dust, or impurities. It suggests a higher degree of cleanliness than just being "clean".

When is it appropriate to use "it was very clean"?

It's appropriate to use "it was very clean" when you want to emphasize the level of cleanliness, especially if the cleanliness is noteworthy or surprising. It can also be used to express satisfaction or approval of the cleanliness.

What are some alternatives to saying "it was very clean"?

You can use alternatives like "it was spotless", "it was immaculate", or "it was pristine" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different nuances.

Is "it was very clean" formal or informal?

The phrase "it was very clean" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more sophisticated vocabulary might be preferred in highly formal settings. The alternatives such as "it was immaculate" tend to sound more formal than the query phrase.