very real

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very real" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize the level or intensity of something that is actually existing or true. Example: The impact of climate change is becoming more and more evident, with very real consequences for the environment and human life.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is very real.

The New York Times

It sounded very real.

The New Yorker

It was very real.

The New Yorker

"It becomes very real".

The New York Times

It's very, very real.

Independent

Danger is very real.

The New York Times

They are very real.

The New Yorker

He's frankly very real.

The New Yorker

It's very real".

The New York Times

"Well, he's very real.

The New York Times

Such grievances are very real.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance the impact, consider adding specifics immediately after using "very real". For example: "The consequences are very real, impacting families and communities."

Common error

While "very real" is versatile, avoid overusing it in overly casual conversations where a simpler "real" or more nuanced adjective would suffice. Overuse diminishes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very real" functions as an intensifier modifying the adjective "real", emphasizing the actuality, genuineness, or tangibility of something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it underscores the point that something is not just real, but significantly so.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very real" functions to emphasize the actuality or impact of something, and is confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media, with a neutral register. While versatile, it's most effective when underscoring something potentially doubted or downplayed. When composing or editing text, remember the guidance and examples to ensure impactful and appropriate use of "very real".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuinely authentic

Emphasizes the authenticity and lack of artificiality.

truly genuine

Highlights the unadulterated and honest nature.

absolutely factual

Focuses on the truthfulness and accuracy.

undeniably true

Stresses the indisputable nature of the reality.

patently obvious

Suggests the reality is easily seen and understood.

completely valid

Indicates the reality is well-founded and justified.

entirely concrete

Emphasizes the tangibility and lack of abstraction.

wholly substantive

Focuses on the importance and significance of the reality.

palpably evident

Suggests the reality is clearly felt or perceived.

unquestionably legitimate

Stresses the lawful or rightful nature of the reality.

FAQs

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

You can use "very real" to emphasize the actuality or tangibility of something. For example: "The threat of climate change is "very real"" or "The emotional impact was "very real" and lasting."

What can I say instead of "very real"?

You can use alternatives like "genuinely authentic", "truly genuine", or "absolutely factual" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very real"? Isn't "real" enough?

While "real" itself indicates authenticity, "very real" adds emphasis. It's used to underscore the tangibility or impact, especially when there might be doubt or skepticism. Whether it's redundant depends on the specific context and desired level of emphasis.

Can "very real" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "very real" can apply to abstract concepts like emotions or consequences. It emphasizes that these intangible things are genuinely and powerfully present. For example, "The emotional toll was "very real"".