very elaborate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very elaborate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that has been done with great attention to detail or with a lot of decoration or complexity. For example, "The birthday cake she made was very elaborate with intricate frosting designs and multiple layers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some maneuvers are very elaborate.

The New Yorker

"It's a very, very elaborate industry.

The New York Times - Sports

It is very elaborate and highly specific.

The New Yorker

There was a very elaborate entranceway, here.

Yale University

"You'll see a very elaborate spin operation.

The Guardian

It is a very elaborate book.

The Guardian

"They hire sociologists, anthropologists -- it's very elaborate".

The New York Times - Magazine

"They are very elaborate," Ms. Graber said.

The New York Times

In fact, you see this very elaborate in the cortex.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We have a very elaborate code of ethics.

The Economist

"It was a very elaborate system," Seroy recalled.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very elaborate" to describe processes, designs, or plans that involve many interconnected parts or a high degree of detail. It's effective when highlighting the complexity or sophistication of something.

Common error

While "very elaborate" is a useful phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider synonyms like "intricate", "detailed", or "sophisticated" to add variety and precision to your descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very elaborate" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate a high degree of detail, complexity, or sophistication. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used to emphasize the intricacy of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very elaborate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase to describe something with significant detail or complexity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a wide range of contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academic writing. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "intricate" or "detailed" for variety. The phrase's authoritative sources include The New York Times and The Guardian, demonstrating its acceptance in professional and formal writing. When aiming to emphasize the level of detail, complexity, or sophistication, "very elaborate" is a solid choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elaborately designed

Focuses on the design aspect being very detailed.

highly detailed

Focuses on the high level of detail involved.

exceedingly detailed

Similar to highly detailed, but with stronger emphasis.

extremely intricate

Emphasizes the complex and interwoven nature of the subject.

carefully constructed

Underscores the meticulous and deliberate building process.

exceptionally complex

Highlights the high degree of complexity.

remarkably sophisticated

Stresses the advanced and refined nature.

thoroughly worked out

Emphasizes the comprehensive planning and execution.

incredibly ornate

Specifically refers to elaborate decoration and embellishment.

finely crafted

Highlights the skill and precision involved in creating something elaborate.

FAQs

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

You can use "very elaborate" to describe something detailed and complex, for example: "The costume design for the play was "very elaborate", featuring intricate embroidery and numerous accessories."

What are some alternatives to saying "very elaborate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "highly detailed", "extremely intricate", or "exceptionally complex".

Is it redundant to say "very elaborate"?

While "elaborate" already implies a degree of detail, using "very" emphasizes the extent of the elaboration. It's acceptable if you want to add emphasis, but consider if a more precise synonym might be more effective.

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

"Very elaborate" suggests a higher degree of detail and complexity compared to "quite elaborate". The choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.