the very term

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the very term" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the specific word or phrase being discussed, often to highlight its significance or meaning. Example: "The very term 'sustainability' has evolved over the years to encompass a broader range of environmental and social issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The very term "sub-prime" was a dead give-away.

The Guardian - Opinion

But what of the very term data itself?

The Economist

The very term — constitutional leadership — involves a paradox.

The New York Times

The very term "fiscal stimulus" has become tainted.

The New York Times

Indeed, the very term "Belgian election" is misleading.

The Economist

Of course, there are people in law enforcement who object to the very term "speed trap".

The New York Times - Travel

The very term "critics' choice" implies a we-know-best elitism.

The Guardian - Music

The year was 1985, and the very term "Palestinian" was still taboo in Israel.

The Guardian - Opinion

The very term songwriter jarred with him: it spoke of individual endeavour.

The Guardian - Music

But the White House has decided that the very term is political poison.

The New Yorker

Indeed, so complex is the matter now, that the very term "book" is no longer clear.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "the very term" when you want to highlight a potential misunderstanding or misinterpretation associated with a particular word or expression.

Common error

Avoid using "the very term" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or contrived. If you use it too often it can lose its emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very term" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun, typically to emphasize or highlight the specific word or expression being referred to. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is used to draw attention to the implications, nuances, or potential misunderstandings associated with the term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Arts

5%

Opinion

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very term" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize a specific word or expression. As shown by Ludwig, it serves to highlight nuances and implications, prompting deeper analysis. Grammatically correct and widely used, its register is generally neutral, fitting into diverse contexts from news and encyclopedias to academic writing. While "the very term" is common, it is important to prevent an overuse of the phrase in order not to create repetitive sentences and diminish its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the specific expression

Focuses on the particular expression used, highlighting its uniqueness.

the exact wording

Emphasizes the precise words used, with attention to detail.

that particular phrase

Highlights a specific phrase already mentioned or known.

the aforementioned term

Refers back to a term previously discussed, creating a formal tone.

the term in question

Indicates the term being debated or analyzed.

the precise terminology

Emphasizes the accuracy and correctness of the term's use.

the given nomenclature

Highlights the assigned name or system of names.

this very concept

Underlines the core idea that a term represents.

the actual denomination

Stresses the true name or title used for something.

the selfsame expression

Stresses that the expression is precisely the one referenced.

FAQs

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

Use "the very term" to emphasize the significance or implications of a particular word or phrase. For instance, "the very term 'artificial intelligence'' suggests capabilities that are often far from reality".

What does it mean to use "the very term"?

Using "the very term" signals that you are focusing on the specific wording and its potential impact or nuances. It's a way to draw attention to the connotations and implications associated with that particular expression.

What are some alternatives to "the very term"?

Some alternatives include "the specific expression", "the exact wording", or "that particular phrase" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "the very term"?

While it can be redundant if overused, "the very term" is generally acceptable when you want to emphasize a specific word or phrase and its particular connotations or implications. However, consider whether simpler phrasing would be more effective.