the very point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the very point" is correct and is often used in written English.
This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of something that was previously stated. For example, "The quality of customer service is essential to the success of any business - that is the very point I was trying to make."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perhaps that's the very point.

The Guardian - Arts

It's the very point of the system.

The Washington Post

This defeats the very point of being at university - and the very point of the Government dishing out loans.

Independent

But that is the very point, health officials say.

The New York Times

Isn't that the very point of the ruling?

The Guardian

This is the very point that Wilson seeks to examine.

The Guardian - Music

Wasn't the very point about weather that it was local?

The New York Times - Magazine

This would be at odds with the very point of patents, which exist to promote creation.

Harvard University

After her mother's death, Jean begins to question the very point of life.

The New York Times - Books

"It's at the very point where I can see it going somewhere else.

Independent

If one misinterprets this phrase, one misses the very point of Vonnegut's masterpiece.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the very point" to emphasize the most important aspect of your argument or explanation, ensuring clarity and focus for your audience. It helps to drive home the core message.

Common error

Avoid using "the very point" to highlight trivial or minor details. Reserve it for truly significant aspects to maintain its impact and avoid diluting its emphasis on crucial elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very point" functions as a noun phrase used to emphasize the most crucial aspect or essence of a statement, argument, or situation. It highlights the core idea or purpose that is being communicated. Ludwig confirms this through its numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very point" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the most crucial aspect of a discussion, argument, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to academic writing. When used effectively, it ensures that the core message is clearly understood. Consider alternatives like "the crux of the matter" or "the heart of the issue" for variety, but be mindful to reserve "the very point" for instances where you truly want to highlight the central element. While "the very point" is valuable for emphasis, overusing it can diminish its impact, so apply it judiciously in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the crux of the matter

Focuses on the most important part of the issue, highlighting a critical element.

the heart of the issue

Emphasizes the central and most important aspect of the matter.

the essence of it all

Highlights the fundamental nature or core quality of something.

the central idea

Refers to the main concept or theme being discussed.

the main thing is

Directly points out the most important consideration.

the key aspect

Stresses a particularly important feature or element.

the fundamental principle

Draws attention to the underlying rule or belief.

that's the long and short of it

Provides a concise summary, emphasizing the most important information.

the bottom line

Focuses on the essential or most important consideration, especially in business contexts.

the overriding factor

Highlights the most significant element that takes precedence over others.

FAQs

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

Use "the very point" to emphasize the most important aspect of your argument, like in "The importance of education can't be overstated; that's "the very point" I'm trying to make".

What phrases are similar to "the very point"?

Alternatives include "the crux of the matter", "the heart of the issue", or "the essence of it all". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "the very point that"?

While not strictly incorrect, including "that" after "the very point" can sometimes sound redundant. It's often more concise and impactful to simply say "the very point is" or rephrase the sentence for better flow.

What's the difference between "the point" and "the very point"?

"The point" refers to a general idea or argument. "The very point" adds emphasis, highlighting the most crucial or central aspect of that idea, making it more forceful and significant.