very absurd

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very absurd" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the extreme nature of something being absurd or ridiculous. Example: "The idea that we could travel back in time without any consequences is very absurd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"It would have been very absurd to have a pool".

The Guardian - Arts

"This is the only thing I've ever done that is financially very absurd," Mr. Wendell said.

The New York Times - Style

The mix is very absurd and then very serious, until you don't know where you stand.

The New York Times

The situation is very absurd and very unfortunate, and gives the message that encounters are the only option.

The New York Times

In Iran, with the fanaticism of the government, they are practicing some very absurd ideas that are almost unbelievable.

The New Yorker

"There is something very absurd in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island," he insisted.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Does too much employment really lead to inflation, as conservatives tell us — or is the very notion absurd?

The New York Times - Books

The very idea seemed absurd.

The New Yorker

The very idea is absurd.

The New York Times

The very thought is absurd.

The New Yorker

This is the very sort of absurd scenario that Munroe's book describes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very absurd" to emphasize the extreme level of absurdity when describing situations, ideas, or statements that are illogical or nonsensical. It adds a stronger tone than simply saying "absurd".

Common error

While "very absurd" is grammatically correct, overusing it can weaken your writing. Opt for stronger, more specific adjectives like "preposterous", "ludicrous", or "farcical" to convey the absurdity with greater precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very absurd" functions as an adjectival modifier, intensifying the adjective "absurd". It serves to emphasize the degree to which something is illogical, unreasonable, or nonsensical. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very absurd" is a grammatically correct and relatively common way to emphasize the absurdity of something. Ludwig examples demonstrate its frequent use in News & Media and Science contexts. While acceptable in various settings, writers should consider more specific adjectives to avoid overusing it and to convey the intended nuance more precisely. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English, and provides emphasis to the nature of something being absurd.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extremely ludicrous

Emphasizes the ridiculous nature to a higher degree.

highly preposterous

Focuses on the outrageous and unbelievable aspect.

utterly ridiculous

Highlights the complete lack of reason or sense.

patently absurd

Stresses the obvious and undeniable nature of the absurdity.

completely nonsensical

Emphasizes the lack of meaning or intelligibility.

thoroughly illogical

Highlights the lack of logical consistency.

remarkably foolish

Focuses on the lack of good sense or judgment.

uncommonly irrational

Emphasizes the departure from reason or logic.

decidedly unreasonable

Highlights the lack of fairness or justification.

plainly ridiculous

Stresses the obvious nature of being silly or laughable.

FAQs

How can I use "very absurd" in a sentence?

You can use "very absurd" to describe something that is extremely illogical or nonsensical. For example, "The idea that cats can fly is "very absurd"".

What are some alternatives to saying "very absurd"?

Alternatives include "utterly ridiculous", "patently absurd", or "highly preposterous", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "very absurd"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to emphasize the degree of absurdity. However, consider whether a more specific adjective might be more impactful.

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

"Absurd" means ridiculous or unreasonable. "Very absurd" simply intensifies the degree of ridiculousness or unreasonableness.