the very purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the very purpose' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the goal of a particular action, plan, or idea. For example, "The very purpose of this exercise is to improve our communication skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This would defeat the very purpose of intellectual property law.

The New York Times

8, which is the very purpose of the Copyright Act.

Harvard University

It is a departure from the very purpose and identity of the church".

The New York Times - Magazine

Advocates for motorists have complained that the speed limit defeats the very purpose of E-ZPass.

The New York Times

But the very purpose of this terrorism is to prevent any chance for peace.

The Guardian

(Toilets in most of the Arab world come equipped with a hose for the very purpose).

The New York Times

The larger shame is the deep American ambivalence about the very purpose of prison.

The New York Times

● Justice Robert Jackson wrote, "The very purpose of a Bill of Rights was to..

The Washington Post

It appears to have been communication -- the very purpose of the newspaper itself.

The New York Times

Realising these will call into question the very purpose of business in the 21st century.

The Guardian

"The very purpose of rock hair is to be low maintenance," she says.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the very purpose", ensure it clearly and directly relates to the core intent or function of the subject you are discussing. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing a fundamental aspect.

Common error

Avoid embedding "the very purpose" in overly complex sentence structures where its emphasis might be diluted. Keep the sentence clear and focused to maintain the phrase's impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very purpose" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes the primary reason or intention behind something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound. Examples show it clarifying the core aim in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

28%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very purpose" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to emphasize the primary aim or fundamental reason behind something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and the examples showcase its broad applicability across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. When writing, use this phrase to clearly highlight the core intent and maintain a focused sentence structure. The alternative phrases, such as "the main objective" and "the primary goal", offer similar emphasis with slight variations in tone and focus. Overall, mastering the use of "the very purpose" will enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key purpose

Directly highlights the most important function or reason.

the main objective

Focuses on the specific goal to be achieved, slightly more direct.

the primary goal

Highlights the foremost aim, emphasizing importance.

the fundamental reason

Stresses the underlying cause or justification.

the core intention

Emphasizes the planned or desired outcome.

the essential aim

Highlights the most important goal.

the ultimate reason

Stresses the final or most important cause.

the principal cause

Focuses on the main reason or origin.

the basic rationale

Emphasizes the logical justification behind something.

the central idea

Focuses on the main concept or theme.

FAQs

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

Use "the very purpose" to emphasize the main reason or objective behind something. For instance, "The very purpose of education is to empower individuals."

What's a good alternative to "the very purpose"?

Alternatives include "the main objective", "the primary goal", or "the fundamental reason", depending on the specific context.

Is it more effective to say "the purpose" or "the very purpose"?

"The very purpose" adds emphasis, highlighting the core or most important reason. "The purpose" is a more general statement of intent.

Can "the very purpose" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "the very purpose" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, consider the audience and the level of emphasis required when choosing this phrase.