the very phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the very phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the specific phrase being referred to, often to highlight its significance or importance. Example: "In her speech, she quoted the very phrase that inspired her to pursue her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The very phrase is an oxymoron.

The New Yorker

Neoconservatives hold the very phrase in contempt.

The New Yorker

The very phrase "fanatically conservative" is something of an oxymoron.

The New Yorker

The very phrase "body electric" includes both dimensions.

The Guardian - Books

The very phrase is an oxymoron; analysis requires reflection.

The New York Times

The very phrase "modern music" makes most recoil.

The New York Times - Arts

Think for a moment about the very phrase "national pastime" now, in 2013.

The New York Times

The very phrase "organic molecule" implied, especially then, a class of chemicals uniquely of biological origin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Indeed, Mr Simmons says it was his bank that coined the very phrase "oil services".

The Economist

And "cover up" is the very phrase I'd hurl accusatively back.

The Guardian - Opinion

The very phrase "state of rebellion" sent lawyers burrowing into their copies of the Philippine Constitution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the very phrase" to draw attention to a specific set of words that are particularly relevant or significant in the context. It is useful when you want the reader to focus on the exact wording.

Common error

Avoid using "the very phrase" in overly simple or straightforward sentences where the emphasis is unnecessary. It can make your writing sound stilted or pretentious. Choose more direct language when the emphasis isn't needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very phrase" functions as a discourse marker to draw attention to the specific words being used. It serves to highlight the importance or significance of that particular expression within the given context. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very phrase" is a versatile expression used to emphasize the specific wording of a term or expression. Ludwig AI indicates that its grammatical status is correct, and it appears frequently in "News & Media", encyclopedias, and scientific texts. To enhance your writing, use "the very phrase" to highlight significant terms, but avoid overuse to maintain clarity. Alternatives include "that exact phrase" and "the specific term". Understanding these nuances will allow you to use the expression effectively and precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that very phrase

Uses 'that' instead of 'the', subtly shifting the focus to a specific instance.

this very phrase

Uses 'this' to draw immediate attention to the phrase being discussed.

the precise wording

Replaces 'phrase' with 'wording', emphasizing the specific words used.

the exact expression

Substitutes 'phrase' with 'expression', highlighting the manner of conveying an idea.

the specific term

Emphasizes the use of a particular technical or defined word.

that particular phrase

Emphasizes a specific phrase among others, with a slight shift in emphasis.

the aforesaid phrase

A more formal way to refer to a phrase mentioned earlier.

the given phrase

Refers to a phrase that has already been introduced or is under discussion.

the identical phrase

Highlights that the phrase is exactly the same as one previously mentioned.

the selfsame phrase

An archaic way to emphasize that it is the very phrase.

FAQs

How can I use "the very phrase" in a sentence?

Use "the very phrase" to emphasize a specific term or expression. For example, "The very phrase 'impact investing' suggests a combination of financial return and social benefit".

What are some alternatives to "the very phrase"?

You can use alternatives such as "that exact phrase", "the specific term", or "the precise wording" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to use "the very phrase"?

While generally correct, overuse of "the very phrase" can sometimes make writing sound unnatural. Consider whether the emphasis is truly necessary or if a simpler construction would suffice.

What's the difference between "the very phrase" and "that very phrase"?

Both phrases emphasize a specific expression, but "the very phrase" emphasizes the concept of it, while "that very phrase" is used to emphasize a specific instance of it.