very nice work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very nice work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compliment someone on their effort or the quality of their work. Example: "After reviewing your project, I must say, very nice work on the presentation and the research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Congratulations to Luc for very nice work !

Columbia University

Dr. Chayes recalled in the summer of 2000 when Dr. Schramm summarized his year of work to her in a typical understatement: "He said simply: 'I think I've done some very nice work on two-dimensional systems this year.

The New York Times - Science

"I told them they were very nice work, I'd be interested in them, but I really couldn't make a deal" until he saw all of them, Mr. Shay said in an interview.

The New York Times

There is a compelling, highly detailed central performance from Erin Doherty as the increasingly anxiety-ridden Tamsin, boxed in by her responsibilities, and very nice work from Joseph Quinn as Dean, Aleksandar Mikic as the overseer, and Shaquille asi-Yebuah as Luke, the temporary worker escaping to college.

The Guardian

"It's very nice work," Smolke says.

Science Magazine

Google has done some very nice work here.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

You can purchase some very nice works quite cheaply... but you can also purchase some execrable works quite expensively.

WikiHow

"This is really nice work, very strong".

Science Magazine

"I had a great time," she said, adding that Mr. Sandler had been "very nice to work with".

The New York Times

I think if a collector isn't very nice, the work won't stay with them very long anyway; they just want to sell it on, probably.

The Guardian

He came up with the name, as he told The Post in the same interview, "after my shock at the stupidity of an art critic who wrote about my very nice impressionist work".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very nice work" to offer genuine praise, particularly when acknowledging effort and attention to detail. Tailor your delivery to the context, ensuring it aligns with the level of formality.

Common error

While "very nice work" is appropriate in many scenarios, avoid using it repetitively. Vary your expressions of approval with alternatives like "excellent job" or "outstanding performance" to maintain impact and sincerity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very nice work" primarily functions as an expression of commendation or approval. It's used to acknowledge and appreciate someone's effort, skill, or achievement, as Ludwig indicates through numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very nice work" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express approval and commendation. As Ludwig confirms, it appears frequently across diverse contexts, from news and media to science and academia. While versatile, it's important to vary expressions of praise to avoid repetition. Consider alternatives like "excellent job" or "outstanding performance". The neutral register of "very nice work" makes it suitable for various settings, reinforcing its position as a valuable tool for positive communication. Ludwig's examples further solidify its use in expressing genuine appreciation and providing encouragement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excellent work

Replaces "very nice" with a stronger adjective, indicating a higher degree of approval.

exceptional work

Similar to "excellent work" but perhaps even more emphatic.

great job

A more informal and concise way to express approval.

well done

A classic expression of praise, suitable for many situations.

fantastic work

A more enthusiastic and informal expression of praise.

outstanding performance

Emphasizes the level of skill and execution demonstrated.

impressive work

Focuses on the positive impact and effect of the work.

splendid work

A slightly more formal and elegant way to express approval.

commendable effort

Focuses on the effort involved, highlighting diligence and dedication.

remarkable achievement

Highlights the significance and impact of the work.

FAQs

How can I use "very nice work" in a sentence?

"Very nice work" is typically used as a direct compliment. For example, "After reviewing your presentation, I wanted to say, "very nice work"!"

What are some alternatives to saying "very nice work"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "excellent work", "great job", or "well done".

Is "very nice work" formal or informal?

The phrase "very nice work" is generally considered neutral in formality. It is suitable for both professional and casual settings, though more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain situations.

When is it appropriate to use "very nice work"?

Use "very nice work" when you want to acknowledge someone's effort and express genuine approval. It's appropriate when the work is well-executed and deserves commendation.