this very idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this very idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a specific concept or notion that has been previously mentioned or is being discussed. Example: "This very idea of collaboration is what drives our team's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Norwegians may be contemplating this very idea.

The New York Times

For others this very idea of translation is worrisome.

The New York Times - Arts

– you could argue the career of Wes Anderson is based on this very idea.

The Guardian - Film

This very idea enrages some observers: How is it these journalists' place to make those kinds of calls?

The New Yorker

At the heart of what is happening right now in Australia is a debate around this very idea.

The Guardian

This very idea that you do science to make strong discoveries is natural but it's a problem to science itself.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Wolf admitted that this complicates the very idea of responsible dosing.

The New Yorker

All this challenged the very idea of planning based upon rational analysis, participation and persuasion.

City, Territory and Architecture

This would void the very idea of a Jewish democratic state.

The New York Times

If this is true, the very idea of sageness needs to be reconsidered.

SEP

This suggests that the very idea of 'fighting for' rights could be perceived as alien to indigenous world-views, depending on the situation.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this very idea" to clearly and emphatically refer to a specific concept previously mentioned, ensuring there is no ambiguity about what you are referencing.

Common error

Avoid using "this very idea" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler phrasing may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this very idea" functions as a demonstrative phrase, specifically used to emphasize and single out a particular concept or notion. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, highlighting its role in drawing attention to a specific idea previously mentioned or under discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Tech

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this very idea" is a demonstrative phrase used to emphasize a specific concept or notion. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It functions to reinforce the importance of a particular idea within a discussion. While suitable for various contexts, it is commonly found in News & Media and Science publications, thus it has a neutral register, leaning towards formality. When writing, use "this very idea" to clearly and emphatically refer to a previously mentioned concept. Avoid overuse in informal contexts where simpler phrasing may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this specific concept

Replaces "very" with "specific" for a slightly less emphatic tone.

this particular notion

Substitutes "idea" with "notion" and "very" with "particular", offering a more formal alternative.

this exact concept

Emphasizes precision by using "exact" instead of "very".

this precise thought

Replaces "idea" with "thought" and "very" with "precise", focusing on the accuracy of the concept.

this selfsame idea

Uses "selfsame" to reinforce that it is the exact idea previously mentioned.

the aforementioned concept

Refers back to an idea that has been previously mentioned in a formal way.

the very notion itself

Adds emphasis to the idea by including "itself".

the crux of the matter

Focuses on the essential point or core idea, shifting the emphasis slightly.

the essence of this thought

Highlights the fundamental nature of the idea, offering a more philosophical tone.

the heart of the matter

Similar to "the crux", it emphasizes the central and most important aspect of the idea.

FAQs

How can I use "this very idea" in a sentence?

Use "this very idea" to refer back to a concept that has just been discussed or introduced. For example, "We've talked about innovation, and "this very idea" is central to our strategy."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "this very idea"?

Alternatives to "this very idea" include phrases like "this specific concept", "this particular notion", or "this exact concept".

Is it always necessary to use "very" with "this idea"?

No, using "very" is not always necessary. It adds emphasis, but you can often use "this idea" alone if the context already provides sufficient clarity.

Can "this very idea" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "this very idea" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize that you are referring to a specific concept that is crucial to the discussion. Its formality level is neutral.