very original

USAGE SUMMARY

"very original" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express appreciation for or admiration of something that is unique in some way. For example, "That idea is very original!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How very original.

Independent

"She's very original," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Very original and funny.

The Guardian

He was very original.

The Guardian - Tech

Not very original.

The Guardian - Film

Mickey Herskowitz said: 'That's not very original.

The New York Times - Sports

Not a very original thinker".

The Guardian - Books

It's not very original, but it's authentic.

The New York Times

A very original, well-written, and highly thought-provoking book.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

She has a very original and quirky creative mind".

Independent

This isn't, as you will realise, a very original plot.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very original" to genuinely praise something that stands out from the norm. Avoid using it sarcastically unless the context is clear.

Common error

Avoid describing obviously commonplace ideas as "very original". This undermines your credibility and makes your praise seem insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very original" functions primarily as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, typically to express admiration or recognition of something's unique and innovative qualities. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a grammatically correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very original" is a grammatically sound and widely used adjective phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to express strong approval of something's uniqueness and innovation. While prevalent in news and media, it also finds use in academic and general contexts. When writing, use "very original" to genuinely praise innovative ideas and avoid applying it to clichéd concepts. Consider using alternatives like ""highly inventive"" or ""genuinely unique"" to add nuance. Overall, this phrase effectively highlights exceptional novelty across diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely unprecedented

Stresses that there is nothing like it that has come before.

genuinely unique

Highlights the authenticity and distinctiveness of something.

distinctively novel

Emphasizes the clear and recognizable newness of something.

highly inventive

Emphasizes the creativity and ingenuity behind the originality.

exceptionally creative

Stresses the high level of creative thought involved.

remarkably innovative

Focuses on the forward-thinking and groundbreaking nature.

unusually imaginative

Highlights the distinctive and uncommon degree of imagination.

strikingly fresh

Focuses on the revitalizing and new perspective.

particularly ingenious

Highlights the cleverness and resourcefulness of the concept.

quite unconventional

Emphasizes the deviation from standard norms and practices.

FAQs

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

You can use "very original" to describe an idea, artwork, or concept that is unique and innovative. For example, "That's a "very original idea"!" or "Her approach to painting is "very original"".

What's a less common synonym for "very original"?

Alternatives to "very original" include "highly inventive", "genuinely unique", or "remarkably innovative", which can add more nuance to your description.

Is it okay to use "very original" in formal writing?

Yes, "very original" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, depending on the context. In formal writing, ensure it accurately reflects the innovative quality being described.

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

"Original" means something is new or unique, while "very original" emphasizes a higher degree of uniqueness or innovation. It indicates that something stands out significantly from the norm.