this very thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this very thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a specific object, idea, or situation that has been previously mentioned or is being discussed. Example: "I have been thinking about this very thing for weeks, and I believe it deserves more attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

I will be at the United States Air Force base in Tampa, Fla., this week doing this very thing.

Huffington Post

It's about this very thing.

The New York Times

(I had been wondering about this very thing).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But this very thing that seems most dangerous is where safety lies".

The New York Times - Arts

The only thing which has ever menaced the destruction of the Government under which we live, is this very thing.

The Economist

There are indications that Russia is preparing to do this very thing, in which case Nehru's help in softening up countries like Afghanistan should serve her well.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

This is the very thing Good African is fostering around Kasese.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet this is the very thing that destroys many relationships.

Huffington Post

This space is the very thing that makes us world-class".

The New York Times

And with this, you're destroying the very things that are the source of the frustration.

The New York Times

It is this very intimate thing that you can't express".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and context when using "this very thing"; it is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, but ensure it fits the overall style.

Common error

Avoid using "this very thing" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Opt for synonyms or rephrase your sentences to maintain variety and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this very thing" functions as a demonstrative phrase, pointing to a specific entity, idea, or situation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is commonly used to emphasize something previously mentioned. The phrase acts as a substitute, avoiding repetition and adding emphasis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this very thing" is a demonstrative phrase used to emphasize a specific element previously introduced in a conversation or text. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider more precise synonyms for formal writing. Ultimately, understanding its communicative purpose and context ensures effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this very item

Emphasizes a specific object with stronger focus using the term "item".

this specific item

Replaces "thing" with "item" to denote a particular object being referred to.

that exact detail

Highlights the precision of a specific detail being discussed.

the very subject

Focuses on the topic at hand with emphasis.

this precise point

Substitutes "thing" with "point" to highlight a specific argument or detail.

this identical matter

Uses "matter" instead of "thing" to refer to a particular subject under discussion.

this particular aspect

Replaces "thing" with "aspect" to focus on a specific feature or facet.

the aforementioned issue

Refers back to a previously discussed problem or topic, suitable for formal contexts.

this phenomenon itself

Emphasizes a specific event or occurrence.

this situation itself

Highlights a specific event or state of affairs.

FAQs

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

"This very thing" is used to refer back to something specific that has already been mentioned or is currently being discussed. For example, "I was just thinking about "this very thing" when you called!"

What can I say instead of "this very thing"?

You can use alternatives like "this specific item", "this precise point", or "this identical matter", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "this very thing" in formal writing?

Yes, "this very thing" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, consider whether a more precise term might be more suitable depending on the level of formality required. Phrases such as "the aforementioned issue" may be more appropriate in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "this very thing" and "that very thing"?

"This very thing" usually refers to something closer in proximity or time, while "that very thing" refers to something further away or less immediately relevant.