very bold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very bold" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe an action or decision taken by someone that is especially daring or courageous. For example, "It was a very bold move for her to quit her job and start her own business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That is very bold".

The New York Times

"It's very bold, yes.

The New York Times

Very bold and ambitious".

The Guardian

Ooh, very bold decision.

The Guardian

How very bold.

The Guardian

They were very bold, all three.

The New York Times

It is partisan, tactless and very bold.

The Guardian

"They are very bold," he said.

The New Yorker

And they're very bold about it.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

That's just what Matt has, and it's very… bold.

TechCrunch

"In certain things she was very bold".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very bold" to describe decisions, actions, or statements that deviate significantly from the norm, showcasing courage and a willingness to take risks. For instance, "The artist's choice of colors was very bold, creating a striking visual impact."

Common error

While "very bold" is appropriate in many situations, consider using more nuanced vocabulary like "audacious", "courageous", or "daring" in formal or academic writing to convey a more precise degree of boldness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very bold" functions as an intensifying adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to emphasize the level of courage or audacity associated with it. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very bold" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe actions or statements characterized by a high degree of courage or audacity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used frequently across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, remember to consider using more nuanced synonyms in formal writing to achieve greater precision. The phrase effectively communicates admiration, surprise, or even criticism, depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly audacious

Emphasizes the daring and unconventional nature, suggesting a willingness to take significant risks.

extremely daring

Highlights the willingness to face danger or take risks, focusing on the courage involved.

distinctively audacious

Emphasizes the unconventional nature and willingness to defy norms or expectations.

remarkably courageous

Stresses the bravery and valor, often in the face of adversity.

decidedly courageous

Underscores a clear and definite display of bravery, often in response to challenging circumstances.

strikingly adventurous

Focuses on the willingness to explore new and potentially risky experiences.

exceptionally fearless

Highlights the absence of fear, emphasizing confidence and resolve.

noticeably adventurous

Highlights the willingness to explore new and potentially risky experiences in a way that is easily observed.

incredibly assertive

Focuses on the confidence and forcefulness in expressing oneself or taking action.

unusually ambitious

Highlights the drive and determination to achieve great things, often involving risk.

FAQs

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

You can use "very bold" to describe actions, decisions, or statements that are daring and courageous. For example, "Her decision to quit her job and travel the world was a "very bold" move".

What are some alternatives to "very bold"?

Alternatives include "highly audacious", "extremely daring", or "remarkably courageous", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "very bold" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, using "very bold" may sometimes be considered too informal for academic writing. Consider alternatives like "unusually ambitious" or "exceptionally fearless" to maintain a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "very bold" and "quite bold"?

"Very bold" suggests a stronger degree of boldness compared to "quite bold". "Very" implies a significant level of daring, while "quite" suggests a more moderate degree.