very particular about

USAGE SUMMARY

"very particular about" is correct and usable in written English, and it is usually used to describe someone who is very precise or exacting about something.
For example, "The chef is very particular about the ingredients he uses in his dishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She's very particular about every detail".

The New York Times

He is very particular about things.

The New York Times

"There's something very particular about Ausgrid.

The Guardian

He's very particular about his song titles.

The Guardian - Music

"Italians are very particular about their pastry".

The New York Times

I am very particular about my surroundings.

The Guardian - Books

There is nothing very particular about these anxieties.

The New Yorker

She was very particular about which melons she deemed acceptable.

The New Yorker

— very, very particular about who they want to hire".

The New York Times

"I'm very particular about how I want things to be".

The New York Times

My husband is German, so he's very particular about sausages".

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "very particular about", ensure the object of the preposition is clearly defined. For example, instead of just saying "He is very particular", specify "He is "very particular about" the lighting in his photographs".

Common error

Avoid using "very particular about" repeatedly in the same piece of writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "selective", "meticulous", or "fastidious" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very particular about" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a specific quality or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Lifestyle

20%

Travel

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very particular about" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that describes someone's exacting standards or strong preferences. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in written English. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Lifestyle contexts, indicating its broad applicability. While the phrase is generally neutral, it is important to consider the context and audience when choosing it, and to vary your language with synonyms like "selective" or "meticulous" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

really picky about

A more casual and common way to express strong preferences.

quite selective about

Indicates a careful and deliberate choice-making process.

demanding when it comes to

This phrase implies very high standards and expectations.

extremely meticulous regarding

Emphasizes a high degree of care and precision; more formal.

fastidious about

Implies a strong aversion to imperfection and a concern for cleanliness.

very exacting regarding

Highlights strict adherence to standards and precision.

highly discriminating concerning

Suggests refined taste and careful selection; more formal.

remarkably conscientious about

Shows diligence and attention to specific aspects.

exceedingly fussy with respect to

Highlights excessive attention to detail, potentially implying negativity; more informal.

incredibly detail-oriented with

Focuses on the person's tendency to notice small things.

FAQs

How can I use "very particular about" in a sentence?

Use "very particular about" to describe someone who has specific preferences or requirements. For example: "She is "very particular about" her coffee, preferring a specific blend and brewing method."

What are some alternative ways to say "very particular about"?

You can use alternatives such as "really picky about", "quite selective about", or "extremely meticulous regarding" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "particular about" or "very particular about"?

Both "particular about" and "very particular about" are grammatically correct, but "very particular about" intensifies the meaning, emphasizing a stronger preference or stricter requirements. Choose the phrase that best fits the level of emphasis you want to convey.

What is the difference between "very particular about" and "obsessive about"?

"Very particular about" suggests having strong preferences and standards, while "obsessive about" implies an excessive and often irrational preoccupation. "Very particular about" is generally more acceptable and less extreme.