very descriptive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'very descriptive' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe a scene, item, or concept in vivid detail, usually by using strong language. For example: "The writer's descriptions of the deserted beach were very descriptive, with its desolate sand dunes and churning grey sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And a brilliant director, very descriptive.

The Guardian - Film

It was a very descriptive subject.

The New Yorker

"It's a brilliant and brave program -- very descriptive and romantic".

The New York Times

"There's sometimes a very descriptive passage about the night before.

The New York Times

The journal "was very descriptive," said Dennis Murphy, a spokesman for the United States Customs Service.

The New York Times

It's also very descriptive, which is a no-no in trademark.

The Guardian - Tech

"Something like Charles Dickens is a good thing because it's very descriptive … I am interested in political biographies and diaries.

The Guardian

It's a great book that is very descriptive and is hard to put down once you start to read it.

The Guardian

The author, Daniel Defoe, is very descriptive, for example: 'By this time it blew a terrible storm indeed'.

The Guardian

How do we help them understand in very descriptive terms what we expect on a day-to-day basis?

The New York Times

It was not a happy choice of phrase since the term is neither self-explanatory nor very descriptive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very descriptive" when you want to emphasize that something is explained with a lot of detail and clarity. Provide examples of the details being described to enhance the impact.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "very descriptive". While grammatically correct, overuse can weaken your writing. Consider using stronger, more specific adjectives like 'vivid', 'detailed', or 'graphic' to add more precision and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very descriptive" functions as an adjective phrase used to modify nouns. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and commonly used in English. It emphasizes the degree to which something provides detailed information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

31%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "very descriptive" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that something is explained with substantial detail. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across various sources, particularly in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While versatile, writers should consider stronger synonyms like "vivid" or "detailed" to avoid overuse and enhance precision. This guide provides insights into its usage, alternatives, and potential pitfalls.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly detailed

Emphasizes the level of detail provided.

extremely vivid

Focuses on the clarity and intensity of the description.

incredibly expressive

Highlights the ability to convey emotions and nuances.

remarkably illustrative

Stresses the ability to provide a clear picture or understanding.

exceptionally articulate

Emphasizes the clarity and fluency of the description.

particularly graphic

Focuses on the detailed and sometimes shocking nature of the description.

quite comprehensive

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the description.

thoroughly elaborate

Emphasizes the extensive detail and complexity of the description.

abundantly clear

Focuses on the ease with which the description can be understood.

elaborately detailed

Highlights both the detail and the care put into the description.

FAQs

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

Use "very descriptive" to emphasize that something is explained with numerous details. For example, "The author provided a "very descriptive" account of the events."

What are some alternatives to "very descriptive"?

You can use alternatives like "highly detailed", "extremely vivid", or "incredibly expressive" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "very descriptive" or "descriptive"?

"Very descriptive" emphasizes the extent of detail, while "descriptive" simply indicates that detail is present. The choice depends on whether you need to highlight the degree of detail.

Can "very descriptive" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "very descriptive" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider using a more sophisticated synonym like "highly detailed" or "thoroughly elaborate" for added precision and impact.